Can it be true-BARBIE Turns 50!

Here we are-the end of another busy week in the world of the midlife adventure!

Hanging on and hanging in as a free agent in the business world!

Doing my best to dodge all the economic BAD news, and that alone is a major challenge

these days! I know that complaining just makes it more real…so I thought I'd share some big news this week and it is in

a definite lighter vein, that the Barbie doll turns the big 50. That's right, she is going to be eligible for her AARP card

..or CARP (in Canada) When the AARP card arrives in the mail on Monday for Barbie, I doubt the young girls she appeals to will

be debating the issues and interests facing those of us who have hit the same age as Barbie!

Whether it is the plunge in our 401K, the high cost of the college tuition of our kids, or the latest in anti-aging products, Barbie

is forever young.

Barbie, this shapely blonde icon, has created a storm of controversy since her launch by Mattel at the Toy Fair in New York City on March 9th,1959. Critics feel she sets an impossible standard of beauty and encourages eating disorders.

Did you know that Mattel buckled to societal pressure and expanded her waist and reduced her breast size!

Critics have said she contributes to the early sexualization of young girls. Or that her 108 careers from astronaut,doctor, dancer,

princess, cowgirl, ballet dancer etc. gives the wrong idea because careers are more than changing to different outfits-imagine!

All I know that critics may complain all they want to, but the $ 6 billion in sales last year is a strong statement that girls

just like to play with dolls. I have a confession to make…

I loved playing with Barbie..and in fact did right up to the time I was 12.

It was with great joy that I continued the tradition by gifting many Barbie dolls and cool outfits  for my 5 nieces.

Just nice to know in this world of so much doom and gloom that some things remain the same.

While Barbie may be turning 50, she represents the fantasy that we are ageless. I salute that. Happy Birthday Barbie.

May you be Forever Young!