Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia, Han Solo. Batman, Superman, Cat Woman, The Joker. Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep, Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head. Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy.
To our children, they are superheroes to emulate or gift givers extraordinaire. Their posters adorn bedroom walls. Their images on pajamas, slippers, pillowcases and bed comforters assure protection from nocturnal invaders. Lunch boxes (does anyone use lunch boxes anymore?), backpacks, and underwear with their themes warn school bullies to back off. They leave gifts unseen around trees, in baskets, and under pillows.
