I've shared my story on this board in the past, so bear with me if this is a repeat for any of you. [img]smile.gif[/img]

My love of history began at an early age when my dad started using the Little House books as bedtime stories when I was about 6. (He wanted to prepare us for an Oregon Trail experience we were going to do that summer.) By 3rd grade, I was a regular at our local libray. I happened upon the AG books and was attracted first to Kirsten's, having already been introduced to pioneers through Laura Ingalls. Ironically, the first book I chose was Kirsten's last- Changes For Kirsten.

When I saw the ad in the back for a newsletter and a catalgue with dolls, I couldn't wait to see it. My first one had a girl in Kirsten's birthday dress sitting in a tree with her matching doll and book. (circa 1990) I wore out the pages.

Mom told me I could choose a doll for my 9th birthday! At the time, I thought Molly was ugly, at least in the book illustrations, so I debated between Kirsten and Samantha, and in the end I picked Samantha....perhaps for the brown hair like mine and the frilly clothes, I don't exactly remember.

Although I didn't see my Samantha until my birthday, mom did tease me with the box. She came in and showed it to me while I was taking a bath! My mom bought herself a Kirsten 2 months later. [img]smile.gif[/img]

<font color="#051E50" size="1">[ March 19, 2006 12:51 AM: Message edited by: AngieBelle ]</font>