Interesting the thoughts this thread has brought to mind. You have mentioned a lot of things that I remember - even Tiny Tears, which I recieved when I was too young to ask. (First girl in the family after two boys, priviledged; you might recognize the things my brothers voiced at the time!!)
What I wanted was a horse. Being raised by parents who grew up farming, and a dad who had to handle the horses all the time, I did not get one. By the time I wanted one, I was one of five children, living in town, and the family needed every cent to keep us in clothes and food. So I appreciated what I was given.
Years later, my DH and I gave our elder daughter her dream - a thoroughbred - and I have been able to enjoy watching as she works with him.