Our blog is drawing to a close with the end of this year.  Everyone here is so grateful for all of you who took the time to visit, read, share your memories of Barbie, and your thoughts on what Barbie is for your daughters. We’ve loved talking about imaginative, dress-up and role playing through Barbie, … More »

With the hustle and bustle of the season drawing to a close, it’s a great time to reflect on the things we’re thankful for.  I always want my girls to not only sincerely thank friends and relatives for the gifts they got this month, but also to really appreciate the gifts themselves, to enjoy them … More »

I don’t remember a lot of the more intricate details of the storylines my friend Jennifer and I used to make up when we played with Barbie – which was daily – but the one thing that prevailed across every plot and tale was that when Barbie was one thing (chef, judge, mother) she was … More »

We’re super-busy at our house baking, shopping and wrapping!  We love this time of year, and the girls especially love it because they get lots of time for play, and get to do it with people they haven’t seen in a while – friends, cousins, aunts and uncles. How will you make the most of … More »

My friend Candace wrote this eloquent narrative about the term “Best Friends”.  If you haven’t seen it already, it’s worth a read! This week, my 8-year-old made holiday gift bags for her circle of friends (a little trinket/treasure, a chocolate and a candy cane)… but gave her “best friends” something extra in their bags: a … More »

My youngest daughter loves to express herself with fashion.  With a sister 8 years older than her, it’s no wonder that she wants to “dress like a teenager”.  As long as it’s appropriate, I say “go for it!” – she loves buying clothes and thankfully because she’s so tall, can easily shop at stores that … More »

‘Tis the season!  Do you celebrate?  What are some ways parents can encourage creativity and imagination in their girls with the extra time off?  Tree-trimming, games of charades, Pictionary, writing cards, dress-up play, decorating gingerbread houses? More »

I read a great article by my friend Mara about balancing the spirit of the season with the “gimmes” as she called it.  It really made me think, and I’m going to have a discussion with my girls this week about what we can do (besides just our tradition of donating new toys to the … More »

Do you have two daughters? I grew up with a sister with whom I am very close today.  It’s what I want for my girls as they grow up, too.  When they argue or nit-pick on each other, I remind them that one day they will be great friends so they should start being nicer … More »

It’s that magical time of year!  My little one has been good all year (well, kinda!) and sat down this week to write her letter to Santa.  She’s 8, so was certain not to let me peek at her letter’s content, but that’s okay, she hasn’t exactly been secretive about the toy that would make … More »