Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Hop To It
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Ten-Hut! Suck in that gut! Throw out that chest! Eyes forward!

I just realized why I never went in the army!!

This Sprogz is called Hop To It and is number SG052.

Frog of the Day

Radko - Ride That Rainbow
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Sometimes when you are out fishing, a fish that will be the stuff of legend comes along. Can't you just see him later around the pond with his friends saying "It was that big!"

This cute Radko ornament is called Ride That Rainbow and is inventory number 1011155. Hand-made in Poland, these ornaments are highly collectible and not only retain their value but increase dramatically from year to year as the particular ornament becomes harder to find.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Froggy Friends
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Even frogs have best friends. I bet they're off to the Bugs & Suds for a mosquito burger and a glass of swamp water. That swamp water is pretty potent stuff - I hope one of them is going to be a designated hopper!

This Sprogz is called Froggy Friends and is number SG245.

Frog of the Day

Ty Beanie Babies - Croaks
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Their back! Or did they ever really leave? New from Ty Beanie Babies comes Croaks. Born December 8, 2004 (per tag). The tag also has a little joke in the form of a poem.

You will laugh and I will croak
When I tell you this funny joke
What happens when two frogs collide?
What do you think? They get tongue tied!

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Grim Leaper
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Who knows for whom the frog croaks - it croaks for thee! At least you get to play a round of This is Your Life first - or didn't you notice the title of his book?

This fun Sprogz is called Grim Leaper and is number SG019.

Frog of the Day

Hagen-Renaker - Trumpet Player
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

There seems to be another frog band entering the parade's judging area. This band is the usual complement of players that will be individually shown in the future. Just look at the uniform, the hopping stance, and the way he holds his trumpet - you just know these guys have practiced a lot!

From Hagen-Renaker, this hand produced piece is trumpet player. Hagen-Renaker is a highly collectible line that began production in 1945. While their website is sorely lacking in information, they do point you to several books that have been written, plus a collector's newletter. Their site is www.hagenrenaker.com

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Toadally in Stitches
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

It's not all fun and games at the pond. There are lots of chores to be done too. Sewing patches on holes and whole new outfits takes a lot of practice - I mean, it is really difficult to learn to thread that grasshopper!

This Sprogz is called Toadally in Stitches and is number SG230.

Frog of the Day

DanDee - Valentine Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Attention K-Mart shoppers! I had to be fair in my valentine plush, so today is a cute froggie that was purchased at K-Mart. And if you've been checking in every day (and why would you not) then you know yesterday's was from Walmart.

This plush frog is made by DanDee Collector's Choice specifically for K-Mart. I just love the red glitter hearts on the end of the legs!

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Green Beret
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Yesterday was the most costliest single day in the Iraq war. Green Beret, SG239, is a continuing tribute to the boys over there by Munro, the maker of Sprogz. Our hearts go out to the families of all 1,420 U.S. casualties.

Frog of the Day

Walmart Plush - Be Mine Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

This frog continues in the tradition of plush for Valentine's Day. Made by and sold at Walmart stores, this froggie carries a red heart that says "Be Mine."

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Big Hoppa
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

It will soon be time for the Frog Prom and bands are auditioning to get the gig. Big Hopper and The Tadpoles is a favorite with most students, especially that drummer - he makes all the frogettes just swoon!

This Sprogz is called Big Hoppa and is number SG059.

Frog of the Day

Boyds - Lily the Frog Tug Along
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Lily knows it's probably easiest to hop around, but if you can get a dragonfly to pull you, it's all the better!

This piece is called Lily the Frog Tug Along and is from Boyds Tug Along collection. It is item number 654251.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Leap Singer
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

In a smokey club along the edge of the pond in the seedier part of town is where you'll find this lounge act. Dressed all in lavender with glitter eyelashes and ruby red lipstick, she belts out torch songs that make you wish you were depressed.

This Sprogz is called Leap Singer and is number SG062.

Frog of the Day

Cairn Studios - Leap Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

From the Accompanying Paperwork:
(November 1993) Every leap year Kent the gnome and Tad the frog take a trip to the beach. First they check with Halley, the Woodspirit weather wizard, to guarantee a perfect day. Kent, like his hero Superman, dreams of leaping over tall buildings. His friend Tad is too small for such grandiose ambitions, but no matter - they're having a ball. There's something about the sand and the surf that just makes them jump for joy. Perhaps they can persuade the frogs Hawthorne and Bob to join in their jumping jamboree. The Woodspirits Justin and Carl are also the right height for this game. Leaping lizards - what a long leap frog line that would be! There's a game token in the sand that says "Fun and Games," the description of a perfect vacation for these two best friends. Sculpted by Tom Clark and Tim Wolfe, "Leap Frog" is part of the Kindred Spirits Collection by Cairn Studios, LTD.

The inventory number of this piece is 2501. This is a limited edition and the number of my piece is 80. Tim Wolfe has also signed this piece on the back of one of the frogs legs. This is a great piece from Cairn Studios and I love adding their frogs to my collection.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Croakidile Tears
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

The news of the death of Johnny Carson has spread throughout the pond and saddened all the Sprogz. They send their tributes to a man who allowed their friend Kermit to step in and guest host once. Goodnight Johnny.

This Sprogz is called Croakidile Tears and is number SG055.

Frog of the Day

Frog Box #2
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Listening to the bass play a little cool jazz, I did not want to get up this morning!

This frog collectible is a little keepsake box from Direct Connection. They have done a lot of frog boxes and they are fun to collect and reasonably priced. This piece is one of a set of four (the tuba player was featured earlier) and each has a little heart keepsake in the box.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - 18th Birthday
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Every Sprogz looks to mark the milestones of life. This guy has just reached his 18th birthday and look at that smile, those eyes, the giant car key - get off the road now!

This Sprogz is called 18th Birthday and is number SG016.

Frog of the Day

Hermitage Pottery - Osama Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Who's that with a target on his back? It's Osama Frog! So that where he's been hiding.

Osama Frog was made by Hermitage Pottery and is a limited edition piece that dates to 2002.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - On Golden Pond (Female)
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

A lot of Hollywood directors find their inspiration from the Sprogz at the pond. This elderly Sprogz was the inspiration behind the movie "On Golden Pond."

This Sprogz is called On Golden Pond (Female) and is number SG215.

Frog of the Day

Radko - Courtin Cutie Gem
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Christopher Radko has been producing wonderful glass blown ornaments for just about 20 years. And along the way he has produced a number of wonderful frogs.

This ornament is called Courtin Cutie Gem. It is from the Little Gems Collection. The ornaments in this line are smaller, this one stands about 3 1/2 inches high. Its Radko number is 1011288. Courtin Cutie is a new release for 2005 and is readily obtainable for now.

A note on Radko Ornaments - Christopher Radko has taken a new stance on his ornaments. Instead of ordering large production runs of his ornaments, he depends on the dealers to drive the production. So sometimes if an ornament does not go well with the dealers, it may be almost impossible to find - so if you see a froggie that you just have to have, realize that it may not be availble later on. I had this experience with 2 radko ornaments this last year. I had seen them and then held off, looking to get them in a post-Christmas sale. Only by sheer persistence and a whole lot of luck was I able to finally find them.

If you decide to buy a Radko a couple of collecting tips. Leaving the tag on makes it worth more. Some come wrapped in a cellophane bag and then wrapped in cotton. Keeping it in the bag may make it more valuable, but the cellophane can damage the paint of the ornament. The ornaments are painted with a water based paint, so never clean them with anything wet. The final thing I'd say is regarding storing your items - don't store them in a basement, attic, or anyplace unheated. It's best to take a spare bedroom closet that is not against an outside wall and store them there.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - It's a Boy
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

It's always a joyous occasion at the pond when a new spawn comes along. This bouncing baby boy tadpole is the newest addition. I think he has his mother's eyes, don't you?

This adorable Sprogz is called New Spawn (boy) and is number SG212.

Frog of the Day

SKM - Valentine Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Valentine's Day is definately a frog holiday. Many plush froggies can be found in almost every store. Today's Frog of the Day is no exception.

This is a SKM Enterprises, Inc. plush. The frog is wearing a crown on his head, wears a red bow-tie and is carrying a flower to his beloved. It has a "Be My Valentine" hang tag. The item number is 23228 CV and was distributed by CVS.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - My New Pad
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

It's always a great day at the pond when a Sprogz can find a new pad to call home. Just look at the smile on this guy! Just wait until the first mortgage payment is due (and I heard there may be some upkeep problems too).

This larger Sprogz is called My New Pad and is number SG081.

Frog of the Day

Frog Fantasy - Moonlight Serenade
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

The power finally came back on here at Frog Central - why does it always seem to go off when it's coldest out? I hope you think the wait was worth it.

Ah, the moonlight, a cozy leaf, and two frogs in love. What could be more romantic? Maybe some soft croaking - er, I mean, music. . .

This is another great piece from Westland. It is part of the Frog Fantasy series from 1995 and is called Moonlight Serenade. And it is a music box which indeed plays the tune Moonlight Serenade. A very fine collectible.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Green Peace
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

The 60's are alive and well at the pond. Well, at least in this aging Sprogz who is still trying to start a frog-munal swamp.

This blast from the past Sprogz is called Green Peace and is number SG037.

Frog of the Day

Amscan - Valentine Frogs
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

This cute couple has been named King and Queen of the Valentine Ball. I see lots of tadpoles in their future!

This plush set of two frogs (sewn together) is made by amscan, Inc. They have new headquarters in Georgia (congratulations) and have a number of frogs that they put out for Valentine's Day every year. A fun and reasonably priced addition to the frog collection here at Frog Central.

Afternoon wih Sprogz

Sprogz - Hopping Mad
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Oh boy, trouble at the pond. It seems an argument broke out over what team was the best and going to the Super Frogbowl. I'd say this frog is hopping mad and a little too wrapped up in frogball!

This Sprogz is named Hopping Mad and is number SG003.

Frog of the Day

Polonaise - Frog King
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

This is a great ornament from Polonaise called Frog King. It has an inventory number of AP1000. This is a beautiful hand-crafted glass ornament made in Poland. It has exquisite, vibrant colors. The ornament is large, measuring just over 6 inches tall.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Bull Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Talk around the pond today centered on the recent running of the bulls in Spain. Things got a bit out of control when Bull took to acting out and tried to "gore" a bush.

This Sprogz is called Bull Frog and is number SG020.

Frog of the Day

Indonesian Pottery
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

This is a really nice condiment set made of ceramic pottery in Indonesia. I do not know if this came from the Tanteri or Trinadi factory.

Tanteri Ceramics and Trinadi Ceramics in Indonesia have grown from the talents of a single potter to two different family-run businesses. Using unique designs and glazes started by their father, a brother and sister started companies in the l990's. The son began Tanteri Ceramics and the daughter Trinadi Ceramics. Both carry on the artistic traditions of their father, using a beautiful soft green glaze and animal motifs. Tanteri and Trinadi now employ a large portion of the village that the brother and sister grew up in. Each piece is hand thrown or built with hand sculpted animal or plant details - delightfully different!

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Wanda Shott RN
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Nurse! Nurse! I'm worse!

On second thought, I'm feeling fine - really, really fine. Honest!!

I feel sorry for all those frogs at the pond who are getting their shots, but with all the bugs you never know when you'll catch something!

This crazy Sprogz is called Wanda Shott RN and is number SG216.

Frog of the Day

Annalee - 1987 Frog w/French Horn
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

This is an Annalee Frog Doll that dates to 1987 according to the tag. He is dressed in top hat and tails and is playing a French Horn. According to www.annalee.com it is item number 2400 and only 1,700 were sold in 1987.

This was an e-bay purchase and unfortunately not in the condition offered. The doll had apparently been displayed where it received sun - notice the discoloration of the felt around on the base. It also appears that some of the felting on the top hat had been re-glued. Unfortunately the damage has been done and can not be undone, but thankfully it was not too expensive and this little froggie will have better care here now at Frog Central.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Deck the Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

It's been really hectic around here today at Frog Central and the Christmas decorations are still up. So Deck decided to give a hop on over and take them down for me. It seems he got decorated in the process!

This cute Sprogz is called Deck the Frog and is number SG229.

Frog of the Day

Homemade Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Every frog here at Frog Central is precious. Some are conseridered highly collectible while others are just plain fun. But froggies like today's Frog of the Day have a sentimental value because someone took the time to make me a frog.

This homemade frog is built upon the base of an air decanter, so not only is it cute, but it smells great too!

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Tree Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Those pesky trees keep getting in the way of frog expansion at the pond. That's where a lumberfrog comes in real handy. And you can tell from the muscles that he's been doing it a long time.

This fun Sprogz is called Tree Frog and is number SG021.

Frog of the Day

Grumpy Old Toads - Gardener
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Ah, the return to Mudwiggle Marsh. This toad is spending the day gardening. Here at Frog Central the temperature has dipped to below zero, so I can only wish.

From the tag:
Flowerhoart Growhoer was a toad who loved the soil. His gift was digging and grubbing about the loam of the swamp. Now all these darned flowers that kept cropping up amidst his weed patch were a bit of a nuisance, but he would not be stopped. His little plot of paradise would stay flower-free if it was the last thing he did!

This wonderful toad is from Westland and part of their Grump Old Toads collection. A very detailed piece.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Hoppit
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

So what makes a frog cry? Here at Frog Central we've been hard at work exploring this phenomenon, unfortunately Hoppit isn't telling us. But the way he's looking up tells me he's getting a scolding for something he did wrong. I just hope he learns his lesson and goes on to hop another day.

This Sprogz is called Hoppig and is number SG006.

Frog of the Day

Solar Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Here at Frog Central it was really nice yesterday and so my buddy here, solar frog, told me that it was his turn to be showcased. Little did either of us know that overnight a thunderstorm (in winter!) and a temperature drop of 50 degrees would happen! Still, ever stoic, he sat for his picture this morning and is looking to shine when the stage lights dim.

This is a solar frog made of plastic on a resin base. The solar panel is imbedded into the resin and according to the directions has a one year life span. There are no identifying marks as to manufacturer other than a "Made in China" sticker on the bottom.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Pond Salon
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Ah, the pond has every amenity that a frog could want. Why the Pond Salon is the hub of activity and gossip. Rumor has it that even Luscious Leaper goes there!

This Sprogz is called Pond Salon is number SG209.

Frog of the Day

Bobble-head Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Someone thought that having this bobble-head frog in the car would bring me good luck and safe driving, but I thought he'd be distracting. So here at Frog Central he's become my "Yes Frog." All I can say is everyone should have one - he agrees with me no matter what!

There are no identifying marks. It is made out of plastic.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Frogsmaid
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

The next member of the wedding party is hoping down the aisle - the frogsmaid. She looks great and we all know what she's thinking - we're the heck am I going to ever wear this dress to after this.

This Sprogz is called Frogsmaid and is number SG211.

Frog of the Day

Michigan J. Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Dancing the Michigan Rag and loving every minute of it. This great frog, the spokesfrog for the WB, always has a smile on his face and a dance step in his legs. He has a Looney Tunes hang tag. He's keeping thigs hopping at Frog Central. And now I have that theme song in my head and probably will all day. . .

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Hop Scotch
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Every pond has a beginning and I'm not sure what it says that this little Sprogz, called Hop Scotch (SG001) is its first inhabitant. A hair of the fly as they say is all he'll need in the morning!

Frog of the Day

Avon - Light Up Garden Critters
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Sitting here on my desk in Frog Central, ready to offer a light whenever I need one, this frog knows how to burn the midnight oil.

A cute frog light from Avon. He has a bulb in the bottom that light him up when the switch is pressed. He runs on two batteries and is made of plastic. He is part of Avon's Light Up Garden Critters and is from the Gift Collection.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Got Bugs?
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Well it's cold and flu season and unfortunately here at Frog Central we know all about it. I hope this little Sprogz didn't catch it from me. Either way, we'll both take our temperatures, rest, and drink plenty of fluids.

This poor sick little Sprogz is called Got Bugs? and is number SG224.

Frog of the Day

Blues Singer Frog
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Ah, the torch singers. Singing the blues and the heartaches of the world. Either that or it's really bad karaoke. . .

This frog blues singer has a copyright mark on the back side with the initials P E R. No other information is known.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Davy Croakett
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Born in the wetlands of Mississippi,
Greenest frog in the swamp of the free.
Raised in the marsh so's he knew every willow,
Killed him a dragonfly when he was only a little tad-fellow.

Davy, Davy Croakett King of the Wild Wetlands.

What a lovely song that was written about Davy. I could sing that tune all day long here at Frog Central. This Sprogz is called Davy Croakett and is number SG048.

It is a lot of fun to collect these guys and here's an exclusive! The 2005 Sprogz are due to be released at the end of January and this 6 of the all time favorite Sprogz are going to be available in PLUSH! Now not only cute but also squeezable.

If you would like to pre-order the 2005 Sprogz you can do so at www.afroggyplace.com/sprogz.html

Frog of the Day

Harmony Kingdom - Puddle Huddle
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Don't you just hate it when someone yells "Frog Pile!" and you end up being on the bottom?

This cute collectible is a box figurine from Harmony Kingdom called Puddle Huddle. From their Small Treasure Chests line called "At The Water's Edge" it dates to 1995. The artist is Peter Calvesbert. The piece code is TJTO. Puddle Huddle has been retired.

Afternoon with Sprogz

Sprogz - Frogsman
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Oh my goodness! The frogsman has lost the ring. Will the bride and groom ever be able to get married? Let's hope he thinks to look down!

This great Sprogz is called Frogsman and is number SG234. He is part of the Sprogz wedding set.

Frog of the Day

Budweiser Frogs
Originally uploaded by KenCalvino.

Bud-weis-er!

From the box:
A beguiling bit of whimsy, this light-hearted figurine captures the essence of the "Bud-weis-er" frogs. Three watchful frogs rest on rocks in their own shining pond, surrounded by lilly pads, a fine rock edge, and beautifully intricate greenery. The Budweiser Classic Neon sign lights the scene.
Completely finished on all sides, resin figurine measures 5 3/4"W x 3 7/8"D x 3"H. Imported, it is bottom stamped ad numbered and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

----------------------
This dates to 1995 and does have the Certificate of Authenticity. The bottom stamp number is 11,250.