I first got into Hello Kitty towards the late 70's. Riding the bus and Hello Kitty school supplies. The erasers always smelled like candy and I never wanted to use them so she would stay nice, new and clean, etc. I have always associated Hello Kitty with good memories. Couple of years ago stationed in the mideast, I came across a Hello Kitty blanket at a local market and it became my happiness during a long time away from home, family, and friends. I kept the blanket on my bunk, bright pink in an army green atmosphere of concrete floors covered with persian rugs and military lockers and bunk-beds scattered about. I love Hello Kitty, because she reminds me of who I am, and who I strive to be.