Jan. 3 - Lisa's musings on Every Day Life

When I was a little kid, I didn't like dolls.

Instead, I liked little stuffed animals -- preferably life-like woodland creatures. Steiff, of course.

And my mother would take me into FAO Schwartz in New York City to shop for my newest squirrel or chipmunk or mouse.

Today, I visited the Museum on Main Street for a story about a doll and toy train collection. I wasn't all that excited about seeing the dolls, because even as a "big kid," I still don't like them.

But I do find model trains fascinating. And this set-up did not disappoint.

However, I WAS intrigued by the gloriously built doll house. And as I stood there, checking out all the miniature furnishings, it reminded me of the stuffed animal version of a "doll house," my mom had bought all of my Steiff stuffed animals.

It was a tree house shape, actually, complete with rough wood exterior and three rustic floors decorated with an equally woodsy decor.

I spent hours playing with my stuffed animals, seating them for tea on the little chairs around a round table. Putting them to bed, placing them in the balcony, dressing them in little stuffed animal-sized clothing.

And I think they would have loved this elaborate house, which even had working lights.

Check it out for yourself from noon to 4 p.m., Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 24.