I came to this hobby through a circuitous route. I've always known about the doll community, but before befriending the wonderful woman behind this blog (PE), it was more of an abstraction. No different than any other; comics, cars, sneakers, or snow globes, everyone's got a thing or three, right? We share reading, creative writing, similar taste in TV and movies, gaming, and painting miniatures.

Painting miniatures calls for a high level of detail on a very small scale. I was already disposed to the aspect, so when my dear friend tiptoed her hobby blog into my life, I was immediately fascinated. This is sacred ground and if I know anything, it's that one doesn't tread on such things. It's presumptive and rude at best. I was happy being a supportive passenger in the pink Corvette, offering feedback when it was asked for.

As we discussed dolls, outfits, sets, lighting, poses, likes and dislikes, what I didn't realize was that she was figuring me out. Much like there's a perfect bite, a perfect song, a perfect movie, it turns out there's also a perfect doll for those so inclined. One day, she giddily announced she had a surprise, "I think I found your perfect doll". I was skeptical. Then I clicked the link.

I was instantly enamored by the gorgeous creature staring back at me. I'd never seen her face sculpt before, if I've seen it since I haven't recognized it. She's got a fuller figure, gets to wear things that I couldn't pull off, sensual makeup, but it's her hair that enthralled me. Multiple tones of copper and gold in that gorgeous waterfall hair:

I know I'm rambling, but PE was right: Jacinda is my perfect doll, my grail doll. I was lucky I was able to get my hands on her as easily as I did.

That Sabre Tooth pose photo above? For those of you who haven't tried to pose hair, please understand that while this looks effortless, it's not; but PE was determined to get me a picture she knew I’d love when she reviewed her for me.

I could continue to gush on and on about this doll, and about the wonderful woman who introduced me to her, but the most important part of this: she was my official invitation to join this super cool hobby.

I hope everyone has a hobby item that means even a fraction of as much to them.

-the Infamous M