Elliot Handler, the co-founder of the toy company Mattel, died Thursday at the age of 95. While handler was known as the “father” of the Barbie doll, an iconic toy for girls across generations, the doll was actually designed by his wife, Ruth. As this report by the ABC News program Nightline points out, Barbie has had her fans and her detractors. But it is the rare woman who has not had an encounter with Barbie in her past.
California painter Julia Kay thought her three-year Daily Portrait blog was just for her. But since then, it has meant much more, for her life, her art, and for her community (including us.)
As always, my children and husband have enriched my emotional education and taught me some things about Thanksgiving.
"Who's bringing breakfast tomorrow?" I asked. The tiny hesitation before her answer told me that my relief had been premature. I closed my eyes even before her words were out. "Uhm, Mama? I forgot to tell you..."