Reflections on Childhood Dreams

I sometimes think about my earliest memories--the circumstances, the people, the sensorial aspects--essentially, those little details that remain in your brain forever. Aside from peering over the edge of my sister's bassinet a month shy of my third birthday, several of my most vivid memories involve a tap dancing Shirley Temple. I remember watching her films on the tiny television in our den over and over and over again. The Little Princess was my favorite. I sensed her magnetism; her ability to sparkle and shine and completely steal your heart.

I wanted to be Shirley Temple. She was brilliant and hilarious and cute as a button. A true performer in every sense of the word. I no longer have the desire to achieve stage fame like I once did (and boy, did I desire it badly), but I often think fondly about the little girl who ignited those childhood dreams in the first place.

Feel like a pick me up? Watch this clip of America's original sweetheart singing Animal Crackers in My Soup. Or, print out that top image and hang it next to your desk like I did. I smile every time I see it.


(image 1- Rides A Bike; images 2 & 3 via official website)