Hearing the words “Beanie Babies” instantly evokes images of adorable, pint-sized, stuffed animals in an array of colors and creatures. These tiny little guys transport me back to the late 90s when every child toted their Beanie Baby of choice around wherever they went. Beanie Babies crowded my bed, covered my floor, and even accompanied me on outings to the store with my mom.

Beanie Babies were such a success because of the diversity of animals available.  There was everything from dogs to dragons and boys and girls alike enjoyed playing with them.  I can still picture my shopping bag filled to the brim with Beanie Babies of all types and how jubilant I was to get back from school and spend time playing.  My love for these plush toys even inspired me to have a Beanie Baby themed party when I turned four, which was essentially heaven for me.  All my friends came over with their Beanie Baby of choice and we played an assortment of games with them before devouring birthday cake. Beanie Babies meant play time with friends– a crucial part of childhood that goes by way too quickly and we only realize how precious and simple that time was once we are older.

As the 90s began fading into the new millennium, people also began losing interest in these sweet and petite toys. Many people discussed saving their Beanie Babies and keeping them in good condition because they were collectibles that would one day go for a small fortune.  Though this day has yet to come, my personal collection of doe-eyed dogs, cats, birds, and pretty much every other species under the sun, remain close to my heart.  My assortment of Beanie Babies are something that I will be able to pass on to my children one day when they to get to experience the pure joy that comes from using your imagination during playtime.