Guest Author - Jackie O´Neal

Celebrate with Marie Osmond
By Jackie O’Neal

Doll lovers and collectors alike will be delighted to learn that Marie Osmond Dolls, produced by Chrisma LLC, a California based designer, is kicking off Marie Osmond Gives Giving Works auctions on E-bay. The event marks the 15th Anniversary of Marie Osmond Dolls. “It’s going to be a year of giving,” Osmond noted referring to the year-long events planned. The proceeds will go directly to The Children’s Miracle Network, a non-profit organization based in Utah whose mission is to raise money for Children’s Hospitals in the United States and Canada. Osmond noted a proven statistic that illustrates a remarkable point about the importance of supporting CMN’s mission. “Everyone will use a children’s hospital once in their life,” she said. Osmond is co-founder of the organization which since 1983 has raised 7.5 billion dollars and works with 170 hospitals. Osmond emphasizes the value of the availability of quality medical care for children. “You don’t know when your child will need help. Having a premiere hospital to get treatment for your child is reassuring,” she said in a phone interview from her office in Utah.

The dolls, which will be featured on E-bay, are crafted of fine porcelain and embellished with impressive detail. Osmond is the recipient of the Q Star Award for design concept and innovation. Lisa Hatch, award-winning creative director of Marie Osmond Dolls is enthusiastic about Osmonds’ creative spirit. “The reason she continues to thrive, is her passion,” she said. On January 15th, the first twelve dolls will be auctioned on E-bay Giving Works. Collectors and doll lovers are in for a treat. “On the 15th of each month this year, Marie will auction off one of her personal artists proof dolls,” she noted. The public will have the opportunity to own dolls not found anywhere else. Since 1983, The Children’s Miracle Network has been active in helping children afflicted with such diseases as asthma, cancer and AIDS among others. As a mother of eight, Osmond has diligently taught her own children about the value of charity. She had just returned from giving a talk at her daughter’s school. Her life’s philosophy which she shares with others ,is clear. “Giving back has to be at the core of who you are,” she said.

The only girl in a family of nine, Osmond learned early to be nurturing and shared her passion for dolls with her late mother, Olive May. It gave mother and daughter a powerful connection. “I saw how it brought generations together and created memories,” she said. The love and connection between the two women continued to be strong until Olive May Osmond passed away in 2004, and even later, Osmond seemed to sense her beloved mother’s warm presence around her. Butterflies seemed to be a thread woven through her experiences. Osmond is an inspired storyteller and shared a beautiful reflection with me. “When my Mom passed away, two beautiful Monarch butterflies swirled around her casket and often landed on the grandchildren’s heads,” she recalled. At a close friend’s mother’s gravesite a similar event occurred. “Two butterflies swirled around the casket,” she said. The experience prompted Osmond to research the meaning behind the special symbolism. “The angels are with you,” she explained.
For more information and a sampling of events, visit: www.marieosmond.com