With the World Stamp Show concluding June 4th, I thought this would be a great time to talk about the new stamp honoring Shirley Temple. For those of us who collect both stamps and dolls, this is a perfect opportunity.

Some of Shirley's Dolls. Knitted doll, 2d from left, is now mine. Photo, courtesy Theriault's

From the USPS, Below:

Shirley Temple Black

One of the most beloved child stars in film history, Shirley Temple Black (1928–2014) went from Hollywood actor to distinguished diplomat in a life filled with adventure, fame, and service to her country. As a pint-sized star, she cheered Americans during the last years of the Depression. A talented performer, she was the number one box office draw for four years in a row and was awarded the first-ever juvenile Oscar.

The stamp shows a very attractive portrait of the young Shirley, the dimpled little girl so many have grown to love. I was fortunate enough to win one of her dolls at the Theriault's auction last year; I was also fortunate to have seen them when they were first displayed at Stanford Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, CA. They were there nearly 20 years. I have photos of them from when I was 11, and later, when I was 30. I also was able to meet her at a book signing of her autobiography, "Child Star."

In my own collection are numerous Shirley dolls, paper dolls, mugs, pins, teddy bears, and pictures. I have the "Photo Play" article that featured the installation of her doll display at Stanford, and I have her films and many memories. My mother and aunt loved her, and were interested in her career for some time.

She was everyone's sweetheart, and like this stamp, she is "forever."