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I’m a Barbie girl in a Barbie world and so are a lot of other people.

If you haven’t heard by now, the famous Mattel doll turns 50 on Monday, and there has been plenty of celebration in the fashion world and beyond.

I can definitely say that the blond beauty had a defining influence on my love of clothes and shoes and my work ethic.

Growing up, I was the envy of the neighborhood with my collection of dolls, clothes and accessories, including the dream house and corvette. Barbie also had no fewer than two jobs at once, including running the beauty parlor and ice cream shop, all while keeping her social life in order and taking care of her younger sister, Skipper.

She sure has come a long way in 50 years.

Then:

Now:

So if you’re like me and are a huge Barbie fan, here’s a few things to check out over the weekend.

• Pick up Saturday’s Telegraph for a story about the Doll and Bear Show and Sale on Sunday.

• Visit the Doll and Bear Show and Sale on Sunday to view Barbie history first hand. The show runs from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Holiday Inn at 9 Northeastern Boulevard in Nashua. If you can’t attend the show, check The Telegraph next week to read about what you missed.

• Read about local residents’ reflections and collections of Barbie in The Sunday Telegraph.

Tags: 50, Barbie, birthday, dolls, Mattel