Happy World Doll Day! I’ve been going back and forth on what to post to celebrate the occasion for the past week. I finally settled on this. I’ve reviewed many new dolls here on the blog and discussed a lot of Skipper dolls, but I have yet to introduce you to five of my favorite non-fashion dolls. These dolls were all gifts and will always hold a special place in my heart. None of them are worth much in terms of second hand value, which is fine with me, as I don’t collect solely to re-sell, but all hold sentimental value.
Cabbage Patch Kid, Elizabeth Ann
The Cabbage Patch Kids came out in 1983, the same year I was born. If you remember, the Cabbage Patch Kids were a big thing, especially during Christmas of 1983, where people literally ripped stores apart trying to get their hands on one. My father, during that time, worked multiple jobs, one of which was at Osco. A perk of working at Osco (besides having enough money to pay the bills)? Getting first dibs on Cabbage Patch Kids when they arrived. Elizabeth Ann arrived during a shift, he claimed her and brought her home for his dear, sweet daughter– me– sometime in 1984. While I have a handful of Cabbage Patch Kids, Elizabeth Ann is still my favorites. My dad going the extra mile to find one makes her special. Elizabeth Ann was originally dressed in a dress, but has been wearing this Brownie outfit for a few years now. You can see her legs and arms have a bit of wear, but that’s from being loved.
Avatar: The Last Airbender 20: Appa Plush
Appa is a flying bison and was featured in the excellent cartoon Avatar: the Last Airbender (2005-2008). If you haven’t watched Avatar, I suggest doing so! The animation is fantastic and the storyline is friendly for all ages. When this plush first appeared in the Nick store, I did what most 20 somethings do when they see something they want– post the link on my Mom’s Facebook. My mom and I share links a lot and usually it doesn’t lead anywhere. However, during one Christmas a few years ago, I was happily surprised to find this adorable 20″ stuffed Appa under the tree. This Appa is the most huggable plushie I’ve ever seen and for this reason, whenever I’m feeling down, hugging this little guy makes me feel better.
Madame Alexander Victoria
I’ve written about my Madame Alexander Victoria before. I received her in 1987 when my brother was born. The special thing about Victoria is that not only do I have one, but my mom does, too! She received her own Victoria when her brother was born in 1968. The tradition of giving a Victoria to those with siblings has continued with my cousins and, hopefully, will continue on for a long, long time.
12″ Russ Troll
As a kid, my mother, brother, grandparents and uncles would frequent malls quite a bit. One of those malls was Gurnee Mills. Back in the 90′s, Gurnee Mills had one of the best kiosks ever– it was a Troll Kiosk. Filled with trolls big and small, it was one of the highlights of going to Gurnee. The thing that stood out most in the large kiosk were the 12″ Russ trolls. Dressed in all different outfits with different hair colors, these trolls were on my wish list throughout most of the 90′s! Here’s one of the cuties that I received from that booth. These large trolls will always be attached to memories of walking through Gurnee with my family.
West German Doll made by the Germany Toy Company (GTC)
I received this doll upon my grandmothers death. My grandmother purchased this doll as an adult sometime in the 70′s. I don’t have much information about this plastic doll, other than she’s 20″ tall, with a German Toy Company tag labeled West Germany. My grandmother didn’t have many dolls, so I treasure this piece and am glad it could come home with me.
These five dolls may not be rare or in mint condition, but they are some of my favorite pieces. The fact that they were given to me by people I love and that they hold memories make them special.
World Doll Day seems to be a great day to share the love of doll collecting with others, whether it’s giving a doll away to a stranger or to your best friend. Just the art of giving a doll to another is a great thing and you never know– one day maybe the doll you gave someone will pop up on a blog just like this.
World Doll Day Logo
What dolls were you given that hold special sentimental value? Share your story in the comment area. And have a very happy World Doll Day!
