1) One large nerf ball plus one wire hanger bent into a circle. Pinch the hanger between the top of an interior door and the door frame....instant basketball, even when it's below zero outside!
2) Spirograph
I never really liked Barbie that much, but I remember the Samantha doll and her beautiful dress (I didn't get one either). I remember having a Chatty Cathy when I was little...she talked in a really disjointed voice, but I loved her :)