This isn't an ask, or a complaint or even a suggestion for the name of the next "Girl of the Year" (although Malala seems nice). It's simply a note to tell you of a lovely lady in New Jersey who has made it her business, and her pleasure, to forward two of your beautiful dolls to my daughters every year. We've never met this lady, but lets call her Anne, because that's her name. You see, two short years ago she read a letter I wrote to a kind gentleman on a plane who had befriended my autistic daughter. This letter moved her and she began to follow our story as I detail it here on my blog. It was not long before she reached out and asked if she could send my daughters each one of your stunning dolls. We, having never laid eyes on one, let alone held one, of course said yes. Sure, it felt a little strange to say yes at first, but these dolls were the stuff of legend for us and we were eager and excited to see if this lovely lady called Anne was really going to send our girls such an extravagant gift. Soon, two 'Isabelles' arrived and the girls and I spent hours that first evening playing with them. (I couldn't help myself, I had never seen dolls like that before). I know that people complain that the dolls are expensive. Since, I am not in a position to afford them myself, I might have thought the same thing before I held Isabelle in my hands. Her perfect silky hair and impeccably sewn clothes were just part of what made her so special. My girls were immersed in her story and their play took on a creativity I hadn't seen before. For an autistic child this is especially important. Kate didn't have much language then but she knew how to rock that baby with her sister by her side and we all could have stayed in that room forever. The following January our lovely friend, Anne, would send two more of these exquisite creations to our girls. This time the 'Girl of the Year' was called Grace. The same as my eldest daughter, whom I assure you, is aptly named. The dolls arrived and our Miss Grace could hardly believe her eyes as she lifted the dark haired doll from her box. She helped Kate, free her doll, too, as helping her little sister has always been her first priority. The dolls needed simply to be lifted from their box because some genius in your company decided that parents don't have time for and don't appreciate spending all their time liberating toys from impossibly complicated packaging. For this, I thank you. Now, we have heard from our friend, Anne, once again. She wishes to send her favourite little Maritimers a doll called Mary Ellen. Maybe you're wondering why we haven't encouraged Anne to take the money she is spending on these dolls and donate it to an autism charity. Guess what, she has done that and more. She is the most generous and kind person that I, well...that I don't know. I sincerely hope to someday meet her in person and thank her for her generosity. Anyway, I just thought you should know that there is a lady in New Jersey who uses your dolls to make two little girls, and their mother, smile. Warmly, Shanell Mouland
14 Comments
Grama
10/16/2015 07:47:02 pm
👭 two very Happy and grateful little girls thank you Anne.
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Lana
10/17/2015 05:39:18 am
Anne is a wonderful person for being so kind!! Not all angels have wings, they do things that no one sees or knows about!! Subtle & with no thought of recognition for their kindness. The world sure could use more Annes!! Thanks for sharing this beautiful story!!
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Nancy
10/17/2015 02:01:33 pm
This is one of the best stories I have heard in a long time. Kate or Annie would make a great name if it has not already been used. Thanks for sharing this story!
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Sue
10/17/2015 05:08:06 pm
I just have to ask...How did they get Grace before she was available? This year will be the first Christmas for Grace as she wasn't available until 1/1/15
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Lisa
10/17/2015 06:11:27 pm
How sweet, but I wonder how she got Grace dolls before Grace even was available? She's the doll of the year this year and wasn't available until Jan 1...
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Brenda
10/17/2015 06:29:21 pm
As touching as this story is, it's impossible for Isabelle to have been gifted for Christmas 2 years ago as she was 2014 GOTY and not available in 2013. Grace is 2015 GOTY and wasn't available for it to have been gifted last Christmas.
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Jill
10/20/2015 04:53:29 pm
I have never before commented on a blog post, but I had to tell you that it is evident that you have truly missed the mark in this story. It begs the question of what in the world you are doing following these chronicles of a woman who has been painfully honest and overwhelmingly inspiring if toy release dates are your priority. Wow.
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Shanell
10/17/2015 07:15:22 pm
Please, stop with the emails. I realize the doll wasn't available until after X-mas. I was not accurate with my dates. I remember it was snowing when the girls arrives so I figured X-Mas, it must have been Jan. Stop harassing me. Anne is real, and she is amazing and she deserves better.
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Lana
10/17/2015 07:58:50 pm
Oh my goodness!! Obviously these people have to much time on their hands!! I know,as an autism mom, how time goes by and I am always just guessing with months & days. I'm glad I'm not the only one!! I guess while we are busy doing nothing we should be keeping a detailed journal about just what happens & when it happens!! Sorry I just can't help with the sarcasm!!
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Shanell
10/18/2015 05:26:36 am
Thank you Lana. It really bothered me this time. How strange that people would immediately assume it's made up rather than just some date confusion.
Lana
10/18/2015 07:21:40 am
You are very welcome Shanell. Sometimes you just gotta be a duck & let things roll off your back!!! I don't bother with others who try to make my life a complicated drama. I choose not to attend their performances!! You just keep focusing on you and yours. Because no one understands what any of us really go through at any time in our life. I read you loud & clear though!! Keep up the fine fight for autism everywhere. Why? Because you my dear are an AUTISM WARRIOR!! Hugs
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Karen
11/3/2015 12:06:58 pm
This is just about the kindest sweetest act I have heard of for a long time. God bless Anne!
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Marcy
12/15/2015 07:58:52 pm
What a heartwarming story and what wonderful women you and Anne are! Do you mind if I pass this on to my husband? He works for Mattel, who owns American Girl, and I know he would love to hear how the dolls made your girls smile. I realize this is a public blog, so I don't actually need to ask permission, but it always just seems strange or rude to me to pass on someone's writing without asking. I know, I must be dating myself, which is funny since 40 is not even that old!
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Shanell
12/20/2015 04:07:42 am
Of course, please share away! And yes 40 is NOT old! ;)
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