Donna and the Bears

Empty Bowls

2012-01-26T15:51:00.000-05:00

I have the honor of participating in a fund raiser for an organization called "Empty Bowls."

Empty Bowls is an international grassroots effort to raise both money and awareness in the fight against hunger. The project was initiated by a Michigan art teacher during the 1990-91 school year as a way to raise charitable funds for his community. His idea has expanded across the US and to at least a dozen other countries.

The basic idea of Empty Bowls is simple. Local potters create and donate handcrafted bowls. Guests purchase tickets to a simple meal of soup and bread. Each guest selects a handcrafted bowl to keep as a reminder of the empty bowls this event will help to fill. One hundred percent of each meal’s proceeds is donated to local hunger-fighting organizations.

My clay instructor at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center, Beth, is in charge of the local effort this year for Empty Bowls. She asked us to donate bowls for the event. As they did not have to be a vessel to hold food, I choose to crochet one and put a little bear holding his empty bowl inside.

Thought you might like to see how Edward came about and the bowl he will be sitting in hoping someone will pick him!!

He began as a lump of polymer clay. At this point, I had added glass teddy bear eyes.

Then he got a nose and some pawpads - more polymer clay.

Then I added dark accents to ears and mussle and pawpads with mica powder, and made his little empty bowl - also polymer clay.

I crocheted the bowl out of hemp and added turquoise colored beads.

And here he is! I delivered him to Beth yesterday and she was pleased! She may even use him in an auction instead of just being one of the give away bowls.

One of the nicest things in the world is to be able to create something that can be used to help others!! I hope we are able to fill lots of empty bowls!!

A New Show coming up!

2012-01-13T19:48:00.001-05:00

I've just found out that I'll be participating in this show in March! I've been planning my little tea party and have selected possible fur fabrics:

Don't they just look like Spring? I'm excited about working on these little bears and have visions of frilly tea party hats dancing in my head!!

Happy 2012!!!!

2012-01-01T07:40:00.002-05:00

We had fun! Hope you did!!! Let's enjoy 2012 my friends! Love to all!!!

And from Kim and the boys who are back in Pittsburgh now - a Happy New Year Kiss from Beaker to Beau!

Looking Ahead!

2011-12-30T16:20:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again when we are reviewing the past and looking ahead to the wonderful new year. Grandkitties Sam and Max are enjoying the view and have been such a joy to have as visitors.

I hope you are as eager as they are to see what's in store for big 'ole 2012!!! Happy New Year to all of us!!!! Cheers!!!!

Cheers!

2011-12-25T18:06:00.000-05:00

Early this morning, Beau peaked down the stairs. He just KNEW he heard those reindeer on the roof!
We had some fun enjoying Christmas Crackers during our feast! Joining our British friends, Kim and I bought some crackers while shopping last week. The jokes were so much fun, I thought I'd share them:

Our constant companion during the present opening was Rocky. He found a piece of tissue paper to lie on and paid attention to each gift. The kitties received their Santa gifts before we did and enjoyed the day as much as Travis, Jason, Kim, and I did.
Wishing you all every Joy of the season! Love from all the Griffins - two legged and four.

Waiting for Santa Paws!

2011-12-25T08:28:00.000-05:00

Kim captured grand kitties Beau (above) and Beaker (below) with catnip plumbs dancing in their heads.

Happy Holidays to all!!

Warmest Wishes for Love!

2011-12-24T20:26:00.000-05:00

Wishes for Love and Joy from my home and family to you and yours!!

All Right!! Time to wrap the presents!!

2011-12-22T19:31:00.001-05:00

Sam: "OK boys! Let's get to work!

Cleo: "All right, Rocky, I'll pass the presents out and you get the wrapping paper and tape!"

Max: "Wow, look at the gold stuff with the snowflakes! Let's use that"

Beaker: "Look, Cleo, I'm folding this so nicely!"

Beaker: (thinking) "I just don't know why I have to do this all myself."

Max: "Wow!" Look at that! First there were butterflies on the tree, now there are fireflies all over those twigs!"

Let's Get This Decorating Done!!

2011-12-21T08:50:00.001-05:00

Beau: "This string looks ok!"

Rocky: "Uh oh"

Beau: "Where did all those butterflies come from?"

Oh Shenandoah!

2011-12-13T19:54:00.002-05:00

On the way home from visits to Jason and Kim, I took the scenic route through the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. I wanted to share a couple of views!!

Holiday Dress Up

2011-12-09T07:17:00.000-05:00

Rocky is not too sure about this dress up thing - but the collar works for him, don't you think? It was only on for the snap of the photo and then it became a toy! A little added Pixlr fun to frame it up was added too.

Then there's Humphrey. He was a little upset as his hat wasn't done in time for the "going to Hunt Valley" photo shoot - along with some others come to think of it - anyway, Humphrey went to live with Lisa in Maryland, but he should have a moment in the spotlight!

He's an extra fluffy boy - just like Rocky- with that air of expectation about him. I expect Lisa will see that his stocking is filled!

And now, I'm puttin' on my driving shoes again for a quick trip up to "the Burgh" for Kim's birthday on Saturday. I'm going via Maryland to see Jason and his kitties. Don't you know, I've bought plenty of kitty Greenies to take to all my grandkitties!!

Show and Tell

2011-12-08T07:53:00.001-05:00

The Christi Freisen (www.cforiginals.com) workshop I was lucky enough to attend had a theme each day. Saturday's was "Winter Wonderland" and, of course, I made a polar bear.

Here's a photo of Christi - the most delightful, fun, entertaining - I could go on - person you'll ever meet. She gives workshops all over so if you love polymer clay - or even think you might - try to get to one of her workshops. I first got to know her work though a delightful book of hers called Steampunkery. And wouldn't you know, the second day of the workshop, the theme was "Steampunk."

And I made this cute little Steampunk dragon inside an old pocket watch case. Pretty neat, huh??

I had a grand time in Black Mountain and at the workshop and have added some polymer clay supplies and tools to my wish list!!! But for now, back to the bears!! Santa will be stopping by to pick up some soon!

Cupcakes and a Road Trip

2011-12-06T20:29:00.000-05:00

Have you ever bought a cupcake for the decoration on top? Well, I did. This little snow guy was just too cute to pass by. One has to accumulate happiness wherever it is - my theory any way. And now look. Who knew Snow Guy would be so functional as well as adorable!

Frodo inspects Snow Guy as functional bottle stopper! I expect one day, I should make a little body for him, but for now Snow Guy is right on my work table to cheer me any time I look in his direction. Joy can be anywhere - even after the cupcake is eaten!!

I've just returned from a fun weekend in Black Mountain, North Carolina. I traveled there to attend a two day workshop held by the polymer clay artist Christi Freisen. I had such a good time and learned many things about working with polymer clay.
As luck would have it, I arrived just in time for the town's annual "Holly Jolly." All the stores - which in this town includes many art and craft galleries - stay open at night and offer refreshments to those visiting. Black Mountain is located very close to Asheville, NC, and is very picturesque and welcoming. It seemed like most of the town's population joined me in last Friday evening as we enjoyed wonderful decorations and the hospitality of the shops. The main street - called Cherry Street - was blocked off making it easy to navigate the street to visit all the wonderful galleries.

There was even a saxophone ensemble playing Christmas music for the festivities!

Festive windows invited us all in to see the wonderful treasures inside!

There are many artist living and working in that area of North Carolina and I was so lucky to be able to visit the some of the shops where they display their work!

I even found a bear!

The workshop was absolutely wonderful! If you are interested in working with polymer clay, I hope you will be able to take a class with Christi in person, or, perhaps, do so online. Please visit her website here and take a look at all her wonderful things:www.cforiginals.com

My friendly Blog won't let me put photo where I want them, so I'll save more for another time.

In the Spirit of Things!

2011-11-27T08:32:00.000-05:00

Despite that disgruntled look on his face, my dear little Peek a Boo, kindly serves as model as I crochet a little hat. He's the only little guy I have on hand as all the show bears have traveled to their new homes. He did point out that he wasn't a girl and frills just weren't his thing, but got in the Spirit of Things when I promised cookies after.

Yesterday was called Small Business Saturday, so in the Spirit of Things, Travis and I spent the morning in beautiful downtown Smithfield doing our part to help our favorite shops prosper! Here's the window of my favorite store in the world, Wharf Hill Antiques. I bought some Christmas decorations and can't wait to display them!

In the Spirit of Things, Kim's Beau sinks his teeth into her candy cane! My favorite photography quote - besides all those wonderful things that Ansel Adams said - is "the best camera is the one that's with you." I thoroughly love all the moments Kim and Jason are able to share with me as they use their iPhone cameras to snap these delicious memories!

And finally this moment of brotherly love! Jason captured his Max and Sam sharing the very best part of the holiday season - a time to remember and be with those we love in the Spirit of Things!

Look what I found! My little helper! and Happy Tofurkey Day!

2011-11-23T16:23:00.001-05:00

Isn't this great? While shopping at my favorite store - Wharf Hill Antiques in beautiful downtown Smithfield, I found a group of giant mushrooms that are also containers. You can see the join on the stem in the photo. My little Marc Andre, flower elf, volunteered to give you an idea about the size of the mushroom. Marc Andre is less than 3 inches tall. The shop carries things other than antiques and I suspect this isn't old. The others in the group were all unusual and I might just have to go back for more.

Rocky felt left out in the last posting of snuggly kitties. He's often like a little puppy following me around and paying close attention to everything I do. Monday night, he assisted with my laundry detail - "holding" the hangers while I ironed and making sure the laundry basket was empty when I was done with the folding and putting away chores. He is so helpful.

And finally, I wish everyone a Happy Tofurkey Day tomorrow! I am thankful for the soybeans who have provided my feast!

Long Winter's Nap Time!

2011-11-19T13:40:00.000-05:00

Now that the weather is getting chilly, the Griffin clan kitties are getting quite snuggly! We find we have lap cats quite frequently!!

Mr. Frodo

Samwise

Beaker

Bundle up, if you don't have a fur coat attached!!

The Show Has Begun!

2011-11-18T15:40:00.003-05:00

The bears in the banner at the top of the page are the bears I will have on offer on my show page. To visit any of the artists, first go to www.teddiesworldwide.com and then click on the preview bear of the artist you wish to visit.

As of 4:37 p.m. Panda Claus, Rudolph, and Cindy Lou have been adopted. There seems to be some problem with making them so, but hopefully that will be fixed soon!

All of the bears have been adopted! Thanks so much to everyone!

More Show Photos!

2011-11-18T07:34:00.000-05:00

Lovely Janet Wilson! Winner of every award there is, this lady is also head of the Wilson team that joins with Mark and Susan McKay as promoter of the Hunt Valley Show. We were all so sad at the passing of her wonderful husband, Alex, this past year. I'm sure Alex was looking over us all making sure we lived up to his view of this grand show. We miss you Alex!
What I love about this photo is that my son, Jason, bought the little bear on the right later in the day - or if not that one, maybe his cousin! Jason is an excellent collector after many years of being around the bear world.
Janet's Handmade Treasures are such a treat!

By the time I get to Barbara Burke's table, it's pretty empty! I'm so glad she did have this adorable kitty to hold for you to see. You know how I feel about the kitties! Barbara, award winning artist, lives in Ipswich, Massachuetts and I just love visiting with her here and at TBAI. Should you wish to contact her about this kitty or another Wuv "n" Cuddles creation, write to: BBwuvncuddles@gmail.com.

Diana Lee Palumbo has marvelous bears of all sizes! Her Timeless Expressions incorporate the gorgeous laces and other treasures you see represented in the bear here in front of Diana Lee. I met Diana at TBAI the first year I attended. She was world famous having had her bears on magazine covers and being a multi - award winner. Can you imagine how I felt when she selected one of my little pandas which would be a birthday gift? I was floating on air! I always enjoy seeing Diana Lee and her husband at the shows!

Penny French is one of the funniest people you'll ever meet! Notice her feathered hat? You should see the rest of her outfit! I think she's doing Swan Lake - tutu and all - between the bear making. Penny's wonderful bears have been featured on magazine covers and she's won the Public Choice first place award at TBAI more than once (not sure of the number there)! Well, just look at them! The bears are as adorable as Penny!! She brings a smile to my face when I'm lucky enough to be around her. I hope you'll get to meet her at a show one of these days.

And finally, the grand prize winner for making us all merry! Marilyn Wagner and crew brought us Rudolph and his story! Marilyn is the one with the blinking nose. I hope you'll take time to visit her at www.quiltsncritters.com There's a little dancing teddy on the opening page of her site echoing the fun she brought to the show and the happiness she brings with her grand bears!!

I hope you've enjoyed this little look around the showroom. Do make a point to attend the Hunt Valley Christmas show if you can!

Don't forget the show this afternoon! I'll post my bears on offer after the 4 p.m. opening. Up to an hour before the show, you can visit and vote for your favorite preview bears! www.teddiesworldwide.com

More Hunt Valley Fun!!

2011-11-17T16:33:00.000-05:00

Here are more views from around the showroom at the Hunt Valley Teddy Bear show which took place last Saturday, November 12, 2011, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Hunt Valley, Maryland.

Here are Alan Hsu and Joe of Teddy Bear Barn. Their display and great outfits added to the festive day!
If you'd like one of those adorable polar bears, visit www.teddybear-barn.com The opening page for the site is worth the click! Give it a try!

Diana Watts makes the most magnificent real fur bears, bunnies, elephants, lions - you name it! She and her husband always look grand in the costumes they choose for the show. I hope you get a chance to meet her at a show! You can email her at Dibears@aol.com.

Now isn't this the cutest thing?? I'm not talking about the darling bear, but the wonderful couple in the back!
Tami Eveslage and her husband pack up some of the cutest bears in the world to bring to this show and this year was no exception. The little sleeping polar bear is Tami's preview bear for the online show which begins Friday, November 18th at 4:00 p.m. New York time. You'd better have your finger on the button if you want that little polar bear because I'm sure he'll be adopted first thing. Do have a look at Tami's website and you can ooooh and ahhhhh at all her marvelous creations! www.TamiEveslage.com

Here's Cindy! Not only does she made wonderful bears, she's an expert at creating wonderful birdies - just about anything from ducks to hummingbirds. Cindy Malchoff is the brains behind the TBAI yearly show in Binghamton, New York, which raises money for the endangered species program for the Zoo at Ross Park there in Binghamton. I hope you will visit Cindy's website and be amazed at her artistry! www.myappletree.com

I do have another batch of photos, but the Internet is running sooooo slow and I have a hungry husband!
Don't forget the online show tomorrow!! Visit the preview page and vote today!!! www.teddiesworldwide.com

Hunt Valley - the Show!!!

2011-11-16T08:32:00.000-05:00

Here's my table before the bears! My dear son, Jason, helped make all this possible. He did a lot of work carrying my ceramic trees, leaves, and the greenery before we every unpacked the little bears!!

And then we added the bears! All the greenery is real and the little ones just settled into their magical woodland!

My neighbor at the show was Nancy McCurdy of Moser Lee Bears. Don't you love her hat? You should
have seen her socks! You can contact her at moserleebears@hotmail.com. Nancy ended the day buying half my display - plants and all. I'm delighted to sell my tree houses but only at shows. I can't imagine boxing them up for shipping.

Ginger and Jay Brame - one of the nicest couples you'll ever meet! The Brames are from North Carolina and add so much to each show they attend. I hope you can see Ginger's adorable little bears in this shot. She writes probably the best Blog on the Internet, too! Check out Ginger's talent at www.pieceparade.com

This pretty lady, Felicia Hymer, is known as the Bear Scout. Behind her you can see the work of some of the artists she represents. I can't imagine how she does it, but she looks after and promotes the work of artists around the world. If you'd like to get in touch with her just go to:www.thebearscout.com

My dear friend, Darleen Allen! Her work is some of the most imaginative around! You can visit her musings and get to know her through her Blog.http://raspbearybears.com/ Now, you see Darleen's hat (which she made herself, I'm told) ....Did she choose that spot so she could sit in front of the painting.......that matches the hat? I wonder.

And finally for today - for I've decided to break this report into more than one entry (I take a LOT of photos)
I wanted you to see an upclose detail of my table. This is the mama bunny and the baby in one of my leaves.

This piece was adopted by a dear collector friend who'll be walking her own little one in a carriage this next year! Yay! Congratulations Jamie!!

Please come back and see more photos from the Hunt Valley show! It's one of the best there is and this year the aisles were simply packed. I think everyone had a very good time. Many thanks to the Wilsons and the McKays for another brilliant show. Check out their website at www.teddybearsonvacation.com

Fabulous Show and.... It's beginning to look a lot like - or taste like....

2011-11-13T22:13:00.000-05:00

I'm still "on the road" but am thrilled to report that all my bears and bunnies found their Mom's and Dad's quickly at the Hunt Valley Christmas teddy bear show yesterday.
It was a great show and the isles were packed with happy teddy bear people. I so enjoyed visiting with friends at the show!
Kim sent this sweet photo of Beau getting his first lick of a candy cane - a family favorite this time of year!
I'll be home tomorrow and will download photos from the show! Check back soon!
Thanks to all the new Mom's and Dad's!

A few more Peeks!

2011-11-09T14:25:00.000-05:00

A few more little furry friends who are packing their bags for the trip to the Hunt Valley show!
We'll all be staying with Jason who has promised to help me at the show on Saturday!

I'll be getting lots of photos of bears and their people so be sure to check back next week!

Have a wonderful mid-November weekend and I hope to see you at the show!

P. S. Don't forget, the Online show is next weekend. There won't be any previews of those bears, but I know you're looking forward to seeing all the bears when the show opens. You can still see the preview page and vote - 4 times per household - for your favorites! www.teddiesworldwide.com

Hunt Valley, Here We Come!

2011-11-08T11:48:00.000-05:00

As promised, here's a peek at some of the little friends that will be going to the Hunt Valley Show this next Saturday!
Of course you've seen Santa and Ashley (in Santa's sack), so here are a few more!
All the bears and bunnies are between 3 and 4 inches tall. Two have tiny friends.
If they don't find their Moms or Dads at the show, I shall offer them for adoption here next week.

Stop back tomorrow for some more peeks!!!

Preview for Online Show is Open!!

2011-11-04T18:07:00.002-04:00

Here's my Panda Claus ! He and other wonderful bears are now eager for you to visit on the preview page for the upcoming Teddies Worldwide online show.You will be able to vote for your favorites!! Just click on : www.teddiesworldwide.com and you'll see them all.

One of the good things about being small!

2011-10-30T10:02:00.000-04:00

The really neat thing about these little bears is that they go so well with other little things! Yesterday, on a trip to Virginia Beach to have my hair done (yep, I travel an hour to get to the best beautician in the world) I found two Christmas ornaments that are just perfect with Little Santa! One of the ornaments was the sleigh, and the other was the stack of presents!
Little Santa told me he'd better get going if he's going to make it all the way to Hunt Valley in two weeks 'cause his legs are kinda short!

Here's Your Invitation!!!

2011-10-27T18:47:00.001-04:00

Dear little Santa and tiny sweet Ashley, one of a kind pair made especially for the show!
Here's the information!
Christmas in Hunt Valley - Embassy Suites - 213 International Circle - Hunt Valley, MD 21031
Saturday, November 12, 2011 - 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Please write to me if you need further information or directions to the show!
Hope to see you there!!

Candy corn counts as a vegetable, right?

2011-10-25T08:05:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, you've just gotta laugh!! When I read the "tweet" which is the title of this post and seeing Frodo relaxing in my chair - I laughed out loud. Now isn't that the best thing to do?!!
Kim calls Frodo "Bendi Straw" because he is the most supple, bendable little creature - well, not so little anymore. Here he is from another angle:

Wishing you all lots of candy corn, a Frodo or two, and lots of laughs!!

A New Bear - A little Smile

2011-10-22T20:03:00.001-04:00

It seems that the bear you've just finished is always the favorite. This time, I am in love! This little lad is meant to sit upon one of my clay leaves and he has that sweetest of smiles. He is rather Pooh-ish in color and is just a little dear. I expect he'll be going to Hunt Valley, but sometimes, they are just too sweet to part with!

Hunt Valley, Here We Come!!!

2011-10-17T07:26:00.000-04:00

The crowd is gathering on the "waiting for my outfit" shelf in my workroom! I have so many exciting little ones just waiting to see whether they will be going to Hunt Valley or participating in the Teddies Worldwide online show.
I visited Jason and his kitties a week ago and we (well, not the kitties) went to a miniatures show held in Tyson's Corner. I bought an adorable little carriage, some wagons, small toys for Santa's sack, and a sleigh to entertain my little ones.
My philosophy is always - start with what can't be changed, and work with it! So. The adorable little carriage requires a very tiny "doll bunny" - and here she is in progress!

I promise lots of sneak peeks in the days ahead!

Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T09:21:00.002-04:00

Fun With Photos!

2011-10-01T07:07:00.003-04:00

Pierre - Art Poster

Pierre - Glamour Glow

Pierre - Old Photo

I've been having fun at the Pixler.com site with this favorite photo of Pierre, who is on his way to his new home in Illinois along with Hermione. I've shown some of the effects you can use on with the app I have on my Iphone. Well, if you go to the web site, choose the first option for working with the pictures, then apply the filters, you can really have some magical fun! The photos above have the name of the filter just after Pierre's name.

One of the most fun is a filter called Kaleidoscope! And did I mention, it's free!

And I think I have to add just one more:

Pierre - Heat Map

Too cool, eh?

Halloween Bear and Bunny just listed in Etsy shop!

2011-09-30T08:41:00.000-04:00

I've just listed my Halloween darlings in my Etsy shop! Have a look: www.etsy.com/shop/Donnaandthebears

Both pieces have been adopted!!! Thanks so much Pat!!!

More Halloween Photos! Etsy listing tomorrow!

2011-09-29T20:00:00.000-04:00

Here are more photos of Pierre, my Halloween bunny. I'll be listing on Etsy tomorrow morning!

And some more of Hermione, my little Halloween bear! Visit Etsy tomorrow so read all about them!

My Etsy shop is: www.etsy.com/shop/donnaandthebears

Halloween Peek - Etsy listing tomorrow!

2011-09-29T09:27:00.000-04:00

Hermione

Pierre

Here are my two Halloween cuties that I'll be listing in my Etsy shop tomorrow. Please sign up for my mailing list if you'd like to be notified when they are available. I'll be putting more of their photos here tonight! Hope you like them!

Do Pumpkin colored bunnies and bears exist? Why Yes!

2011-09-23T08:23:00.001-04:00

This cutie pumpkin colored rabbit is just about to get his Halloween costume so he can hop to Etsy! He has a pumpkin colored bear friend who will accompany him! Each will have some little display items with them just perfect for the spooky season - not scary - just spooky! I'll let you know when they've been listed - hopefully by the first of next week.

And then Beau! Look closely! He's eating Kim's glasses - while they are on her head!!! What a character!

"Contagion" and our Beau

2011-09-13T07:42:00.000-04:00

Two different subjects!!!

First a little photo of our precious Beau who is growing by leaps and bounds. Of course, as he lives in Pittsburgh with Kim, I can only enjoy him though the charming photos Kim sends my way.

And then, also from Kim, a link to an article by the Dean of the College of Public Health - University of Pittsburgh - where Kim is a student:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11252/1173200-60-0.stm If you saw the movie "Contagion" or are thinking about
seeing it, this is an article about the movie from an expert in the field.

Who's that hiding in Santa's Sack?

2011-09-12T13:20:00.001-04:00

You'll be seeing this little fellow later in the year, but I just had to share a peek at my tiniest bear yet. I think "?" hovers around 2 inches tall. I crocheted the little sack and then made the bear to fit in! Though this is a little artsy photo of "?" without color, he's two toned gray with almost white tips and his little sack is an olive green. Please
leave a message with ideas for names for "?" if you think of any!!!

Some Clay Fun and another Pixlr!

2011-09-07T09:14:00.000-04:00

While making the leaves you saw a few posts back, I've also made some pins and buttons from clay. I'm just not sure about the proper way to ship, so am holding back on putting them in the Etsy shop. They are individually made and kiln fired twice. Some of the pins can be used together with wire for folks who make jewelry.

And then a little more Pixlr fun with the Rocky portrait. I especially like the way you can manipulate the edges!

New Etsy Listings!

2011-09-06T11:02:00.001-04:00

I've just listed "Earthquake" Edward Quinn and "Hurricane" Honey in my Etsy shop!
I hope you'll drop by and have a look at their other photos!
www.etsy.com/shop/donnaandthebears

Both little friends have been adopted! Thanks so much Sue and Jamie!!

"Earthquake" and "Hurricane" sneak peeks

2011-09-04T10:53:00.000-04:00

"Earthquake" Bear - Edward Quinn

"Hurricane" Bunny - Honey

These two sweeties were born during the events of nature during the past couple of weeks. Edward's nose was being sewn on when I felt the earthquake. Honey was sewn during the hurricane and she was finished up and her dress was made during the power outage that followed!
I hope to offer them on Etsy tomorrow or the next day. Let's hope these will be the only "disaster" children of the year!

And on the same download of photos - a pretty portrait of my Rocky! I think he knows he looks good in that chair!

Tuesday Morning: I've just listed Edward Quinn and Honey in my Etsy shop. I hope you'll stop by for a look at all the photos of the little ones!! www.etsy.com/shop/donnaandthebears

A REALLY Big Hug and more Pixlr fun.

2011-09-02T07:57:00.000-04:00

I don't often make big bears and this is a REALLY big bear. The outfit is for 0-6 month babies and it fits her perfectly. She's on her way to a very patient Debbie who's waited almost a year for her birth. As I carried her to the UPS store for her trip, Baby really felt like a real baby! Well - a little fuzzier. Her new mom will give her a name and I can't wait to hear what it will be.

Last night Frodo was having big fun on a bug chase. He didn't realize they were outside the window drawn to us by the lamp light. Frodo did catch site of a ghost kitty in the window.

Kim and I are having big fun sending Pixlr (see link in earlier post) pictures we fiddle with on our Iphones and Ipads. After the bug hunt Frodo went to sleep in my lap. Here's the Pixlr which I called

"Ommmmmmmm." Kim thinks Frodo has always seemed a "very zen kitty."

Precious Samwise kitty, Lucky cats, and Lucky us!!

2011-08-30T13:02:00.000-04:00

Our power has been restored and my darling little grand kitty Samwise (my Frodo's brother) sent a message saying "hello" to his grandmama'. Jason tells me that he loves being on high places and I think that must be true for most kitties.

The day before the hurricane was due, I was picking up some Chinese takeout and snapped this photo of a whole gang of "lucky cats." Usually you see just one! That was certainly a good omen for what was to come!!

Our certainly hundreds of years old tree beside our house let go of roughly half it's limbs in one of the hurricane gusts. It took of the roof gutter and facing from the side of our house ...... but could have so easily hit the roof. Travis figures the bit that fell weighs at least a thousand pounds. Aren't we the lucky ones!?!

Jason and his kitties - Sam and Max may get to come for a visit this next weekend. That should be good for picture taking opportunities.
I wish everyone on the east coast a speedy recovery from last weekend's adventure.

Hurricane aftermath

2011-08-28T20:50:00.000-04:00

We're fine! And very lucky. We have no power but are well and so glad to have made
It through the hurricane with only a little damage to the house.
I'm so glad to be able to use my iPhone to communicate! I hope you all are well!

Hurricane so far!

2011-08-27T05:59:00.000-04:00

Good Morning! I was up at 4:30 a.m. today. We are having lots of rain, here in southern Virginia, but not much wind yet! So far the power and cable are all working wonderfully! Thought I'd post a photo I did in my computer class earlier in the summer I expect you'll recognize Cleo, Rocky, and Frodo!! The kitties don't seem to mind the weather yet so all is good here!

Stay safe!

Here's Earthquake!

2011-08-26T07:50:00.002-04:00

After a bumpy ride, little "Earthquake" has been born. He has a snazzy new hat I've crocheted for him as well.
Kim told me about a great web site to process photos online. The first picture shows Earthquake sitting on my work table, the second after doing some fun things on http://pixlr.com/o-matic/.

Isn't that fun?! You can even get the app for your iPhone or iPad! So after a rough beginning, Earthquake will stay on the shelf for awhile. I don't want to offer him or list him on Etsy as we expect to be without power for a time after Irene passes. Several years ago, after Isabel, we were "in the dark" for a week. I have lots to sew and some batteries and food for the cooler, so we'll be fine. I'll try to tweet our progress if I can't compute.

I did want to show you some leaves I've made for little bears to sit upon. I've used dark clay, pressed leaves from my neighborhood into the clay and trimmed around the shape. I then dropped the leaf shaped clay into a bowl to let them dry. After bisque firing, I used a marvelous glaze called Pippin Green . I'm thinking I'll save them for the Hunt Valley show so that I won't have to worry with extra shipping precautions and breakage. Aren't they swell??

I'll keep in touch as I'm able! Hope to hear from you and wish all of you well! Love to all from the path of the storm here in southern Virginia!

Earthquake!!!! Hurricane!!!!!

2011-08-24T07:36:00.000-04:00

I was sewing a nose on a little bear yesterday at 1 something in the afternoon. Surely he will be named "Earthquake!" Having lived in California when Jason and Kim were little, I knew exactly what was happening. My "staff" (the kitties) showed some concern - and then quickly returned to the business of the afternoon nap. Pictured in these three shots is Frodo just minutes after the big event.

So now we'll begin "battening down the hatches," taking in our tiki lights from the deck, and buying peanut butter in preparation for Irene's visit. What next????

Kim's "Beau"

2011-08-04T07:09:00.000-04:00

Photographing with her Iphone, Kim captured sweet little Beau just after he performed one of his feats of agility when he jumped onto a shelf on her lamp. This is one of the most brilliant photos I've ever seen - even if I didn't know the subject and photographer personally! Kim mentioned that little Beau is growing so quickly, he won't fit on that shelf much longer. I am amazed that the lamp is still standing!

Happy Sunflowers, farmers market, and antiquing....and Beau!!

2011-07-18T13:55:00.001-04:00

Beautiful Smithfield Virginia has a Farmers' Market on Saturdays. Travis and I enjoy going down, having breakfast at the Smithfield Gourmet Bakery (yum!) and getting wonderful local produce for
the week ahead.
In addition to wonderful veggies, one farmer offers cut flowers in take home vases (a canning jar) and individual sunflowers. The one pictured above caught my eye because of the enthusiastic leaves on
either side of the blossom. I plan to take photos each day as the bloom matures.

After breakfast, we went next door to my favorite shop in town (maybe the world) Wharf Hill Antiques. You may remember it's window from one of my virtual postcards. I found such treatures!

There was a box of "Woodpecker" Handweaving wool that was spun in Scotland, two spools of Columbia Cotton Crochet thread, and a bag of wooden spools! I just love looking at them.

I'm busy at work on more little bears and more crocheted outfits (hope you saw Emma in the show last weekend) and hope to be listing them on Etsy soon. I'll also soon have some ceramic buttons and pins and some greeting cards featuring my bears, cats, and flowers - some of my favorite things!

I think a thing of beauty looks good from all angles!!

And finally a "hello" to Beau - our newest clan member. Kim has adopted little Beau who proves to be a able playmate for Beaker and he's won all our hearts!

Beau is definitely a thing of beauty and gets into some pretty strange angles! What a cutie!

Online Show Begins!

2011-07-15T17:56:00.001-04:00

What a mad whirlwind! The online show began at 4 p.m. and 4 of my bears were gone within the first minutes. There were Paypal button problems and some were disappointed that the bear they were after had been taken. I am so very sorry! On top of that, my computer (should say computers as I was dashing from my PC to my MAC hoping one would load faster so that I could get to email, web page, and Paypal faster! Now I know how my husband and son feel when they say their computers are "so slow!" I hope everyone will visit the show and enjoy seeing all the wonderful bears up for adoption! By the way, my bears for the show, pictured above, are Little Sam, Antonio, Emma, Aurora, and Raphael. As of now, Aurora is the only one left in the show. She's a little different - hand dyed rayon and is very fluffy! Click here to visit the show: www.teddiesworldwide.com Aurora has been adopted today as well and will be on her way to California tomorrow! Thanks to everyone for the wonderful response to the show and to my bears!!

Preview for Teddies Worldwide Online Show

2011-07-01T08:05:00.001-04:00

The preview page for the upcoming Teddies Worldwide online show is open today! My preview photo is shown above featuring "Little Sam" who's having fun in the parade! I hope you'll click on the link to the right to visit the preview page. I understand there's some voting you can do for your favorites!

Frodo, King of the Fairy Kitties

2011-06-28T10:11:00.000-04:00

We presented our Photo Illustration projects in class last night. Mine stars sweet Frodo! I envisioned this as an illustration for children's literature - hope it spurs your imagination!

The Postcards

2011-06-23T19:30:00.000-04:00

Now for a look at my computer graphics assignment! If you will recall, we were to design postcards and I chose Smithfield, VA for my subject. Instead of one, I designed three! Well, I took a lot of photos.

The first two had definite bear influences! The first used a little statue that is in front of one of the antique shops in town. The second uses sweet Todd who now lives at Pat's house.

And this third one features the window of my favorite shop in town, Wharf Hill Antiques. I hope you enjoy these! My next assignment of photo illustration will feature my kitties!
P. S. Bears are under way for the upcoming online show, but we can't show sneak peeks yet!!

Welcome, Mr. Frodo!

2011-06-20T10:05:00.001-04:00

And here's the newest member of our happy household! Jason's (my son) Samwise's (his new kitten)brother, Mr. Frodo! My husband Travis pointed out that perhaps he should be called Gandalf (the gray), but Frodo is easier to say and kittens are so Hobbit -ish.

He and I made the journey from Maryland yesterday without incident. I found a brilliant new cat carrier which allowed him to see out on all sides of it . He was contained but, I suppose, didn't feel to confined. He was a perfect angel and slept most of the way.

May I point out a few of his finest features! In contrast to his oh so soft gray fur, he has golden eyes! His whiskers are bright white and he looks like he's pranced through white paint. There are other touches of that white under his chin and on is chest. And the gray theme is carried through to that beautiful soft gray nose. Very precious, don't you think?

Rocky and Cleo are having big fun with their new playmate and Mr. Frodo gets enjoyment out of every moment of life!

Meeeee tooooo!

2011-06-14T18:55:00.000-04:00

And don't you know I just got a text and photo from Beaker saying he knows how to play computer too!

New Kitties!

2011-06-14T08:26:00.000-04:00

If there isn't a web site called "Kitties on Keyboards," there should be! We, of the Griffin clan, are adding two more kitties to the family. Pictured napping on Jason's keyboard are Samwise and Frodo! When I last visited Jason in Maryland, he was searching for a companion for Max. We met a dear lady named Lisa who was fostering a litter and has been kind enough to allow two of them, pictured above, to become Griffins! Jason's Samwise is on the left, and I am thrilled to say, Frodo will be coming to Virginia this next weekend. I'm heading up that way on Friday. They are twelve weeks old today. Lisa is part of an organization called Animal Advocates of Howard County. They do a fine job of making sure the kitties go to proper homes full of love! We appreciate they time and care Lisa has taken with these young ones. Jason reports they are so sweet and cuddly!

The Art Gallery

And on another subject, a class I'm taking at a local college in computer graphics, required taking photos for a postcard assignment. I had a wonderful day walking around Smithfield photographing our lovely town. I created three postcards and presented them last night in class. I'd like to share some of the photos and will "post the postcards" before long!

The Old Court House - built in 1750

My favorite store - Warf Hill Antiques

once featured in Southern Living

We have a delightful stature of

Ben Franklin reading a copy of the constitution - right on Main Street! He lives in front of the Smithfield Times building.

And more wonderful shops

make a walk down main street such a joy!

Max!!!

2011-05-20T08:55:00.000-04:00

Our family welcomes big loveable Max into the fold! Jason had the opportunity to rescue this beautiful kitty who had been abandoned.

He has just spent his first night in Jason's Maryland apartment and, from this pose, looks as if he feels right at home.

And just like all kitties, he seems to like playing in the tub! I can't wait to visit and hug that big bundle of joy! Jason had decided against adopting a kitten since he's away at work for many hours during the day. I think this partnership was meant to be and both guys will enjoy being the best of roommates!

Whirlwind weekend!

2011-05-16T07:56:00.001-04:00

I was so thrilled with my table for the show in Philadelphia this past weekend! I hope you are able to get an idea of how my little woodland scene looked! Some of the bears were danding around a Maypole and others were playing in the gardens of the "tree houses."
The show itself only lasted four hours - from 10-2 - and there were many collectors to visit with. I saw some folks that I haven't seen in years - both artists and collectors.
I hardly left the table because I didn't want to miss seeing anyone! Right at the last, though, I did remember to get some photos of those near - and dear - to me.

Donna Neilson

Diana Lee Palumbo

Sharon Barron

Martha Burch

Barbara Burke

Penny French

And I did get a few shots of some really grand bears!

I wish you all could have been there! It was truly a magnificent weekend and Susan and Terry Quinlan are to be commended for having planned and executed one of the great moments in time for the bear and doll world. Their work through their museum in Santa Barbara adds so much to all who love bears and dolls. Please do visit the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Library if you are in or close to Santa Barbara!
www.quinlanmuseum.com

Philly Show second day - The Gallery

2011-05-13T19:48:00.000-04:00

Friday morning started out with the fabulous Gallery of one of a kind Bears and Dolls - in two separate rooms. Featured here are some of my favorites.

And now for some dolls! These are just magnificent!

Coming next - and this may be after I return home: views of the show!

The Philly Show in Full Swing

2011-05-13T19:14:00.000-04:00

The Ballroom was filled with enthusiastic bear and doll lovers on Thursday evening; All convention participants received a packet of information and schedules which include classes, book signings, a little marketplace of goodies to buy for our dolls and bears, wonderful meals, and opportunities to mingle with just the best folks on earth.
Here are some happy participants on that first night of fun!

Coming next:: The gallery of Bears and that of Dolls!

One more little peek!

2011-05-11T18:55:00.000-04:00

As Prom season is in full swing, this little Miss wanted you to see her very fancy dress just before she leaves for the teddy bear show in Philadelphia! When I embroidered her nose using a peach colored thread, I decided that her dress should be the same color. The peach batiste skirt has an overlay of beautiful cotton lace. Each of the scallops has a tiny pearl and there are pearls in the flowers for her ear. The dress has a bustle of the same pale peach satin ribbon flowers.

I've always loved little things. I remember particularly thinking how adorable Kim's Strawberry Shortcake Dolls were. For the time being, I'm working with a limited pallet of these 4 inch and smaller bears to see how pretty and sweet I can make them. The faces are my first concern and then I think they should be graceful.

Of course, materials and trims for clothing have particular considerations. The adventure has much to offer!

And finally a look at my tote bag for the show! For the past few years, I've had tote bags made featuring my bears along with my web address to send my bears home in from the shows. I think it's just a little way that I can help the environment giving the collectors a reusable canvas tote so they can take it to market once they've unloaded all the bears from the show!

Please come back and see my reports from the show!

Happy May Day!

2011-05-01T08:16:00.000-04:00

Later in the year annuals will bring bundles of joy with great patches of color, but just now a tour around the yard finds glorious perinneals planted in previous years. One forgets just how beautiful they can be!

I'm always looking for anything blue or purple to add.

But for sheer drama, a white peony is a fine choice.

And for a smile, nothing beats this little swinging
bunny - a Mother's Day gift from Kim a decade ago.
His little swing has needed repairs over the years,
but he keeps smiling in any weather!

Precious Visitor!

2011-04-29T08:47:00.000-04:00

Kim calls our deck "the ark" because of all the wildlife that visits - usually at night. We leave treats for them and word gets around in the woods apparently! I was suprised to see this little raccoon show up in the afternoon a few days ago. We've named him "Cookie" (his mom - we guess - is called Cupcake) and he's actually looking through the glass door at me. Again, the best camera is the one that's with you, so this is an iPhone photo!

Working on Pandas and Playing Cards!

2011-04-25T10:06:00.002-04:00

I'm working on some pandas for the Philly show today so I thought I'd change the header! As I was looking through my files, I saw some photos that I haven't shared. A while ago, I took a design class at a local community college. One of the projects was to design a deck of playing cards. Well, don't you know that I used my little bears and bunnies and an elephant! The four card suits were represents by different flowers.I even wrote a little back story about a mythical island where all these creatures live together in harmony! Thought you might like to see a few of them!

The queen was a pretty polar bear!

The Jack had to be a rabbit!

And this dancing elephant I made
out of polymer clay was a perfect
joker!

....and here is the story that brought the project together:

Beyond the edge of land, somewhere in the mists of time, lay the Isle of Terre des Fleures. The land was divided into four Kingdoms which were each ruled over by just and kind Kings and their Queens.

The land was extremely fertile and rain was plentiful. The inhabitants all shared a love of growing fruits, vegetables, and especially flowers. Each of the Kingdoms had one particular flower which they were know for and cultivated to share with the rest of the world. Great ships would come to the shores to trade for the plants and bulbs so prized by those not fortunate enough to live on Terre des Fleures.

The inhabitants of the Kingdoms realized that if they worked together sharing gardening secrets and knowledge gained through years of weather observations, that all on the Isle would prosper……..and so they did.

Don't you love it when your can write your own happiness?!

Gifts from Debbie!

2011-04-20T19:22:00.004-04:00

Can you just imagine my surprise when my mailbox had a wonderful unexpected box inside with my name on it! My friend Debbie, who lives in Richmond, made wonderful gifts for Rocky, Cleo, and me and sent them our way. Debbie is a fabulous needle worker and her gifts included a crocheted bunny for me and knitted snakes for Rocky and Cleo. I don't know who was more excited!! I must say that most of the photos I took of the kitties playing with their new treasures were a blur! These little snakes are just wonderful. The kitties grab them up and toss them about and then chase them all over the place.

Rocky needs that extra toe to keep up with these adorable little snakes! He doesn't realize he's meant

to have the blue "boy" one.

And Miss Cleo has been carrying around that blue one since the package was opened! You know kitties, they will play with any old snake!

Rocky's not so sure the bunny is for me!!!

'Cause guess where his snake went.

You might remember that Debbie made wonderful little penguins for Kim and me. I thank you so much, Debbie, for sharing your artistry. All of us appreciate your kindness!

And finally, this lovely iris! I wish I could claim it in my garden, but it blooms at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center. I had my camera along yesterday when I went to the clay studio. I've always had a fondness for the blue iris - though I realize this one is kind of "purpley." The blue iris was my grandfather's favorite flower as he was colorblind to most colors. Blue was one of the only colors he could enjoy. I think that must be why blue is one of my favorite colors!

Tree house update, a pretty kitty photo, and a little bear inspector.

2011-04-15T08:41:00.000-04:00

So now I have cut the door and windows out of the little bears' tree house! You can see the very basic tools used for this operation - knife and cookie cutter! Shortly after this photo, I affixed the door - slightly open - back into the house, using the holes for the windows to adjust it and secure with a strip of clay. My hands were too muddy to take up my camera during this operation. Now the waiting, and careful drying under varying layers of plastic, begins!

Do not adjust your computer! My camera was right side up when I took this photo of Rocky. He's a great one for flopping over on chairs and that's what he'd done for this photo. You can see the seat of the chair just under his head. He seems very comfortable upside down!

And finally, little Todd inspecting a new little bear head. Faces are everything, aren't they?
Spring has sprung here in Virginia and we are all thrilled here at the Griffin house - two legged inhabitants, four legged, and those tiny ones who dance in the moonlight!

Art Is What You Make It!

2011-04-09T08:08:00.002-04:00

"Art is what you make it" - a wonderful statement for the Peninsula Fine Arts Center in Newport News, Virginia, where it's such a joy to go and make art surrounded by friends in the studios there. I took the dogwood photos out the window of the clay studio where I'm preparing more "tree houses" for my little bears for the upcoming show in Philadelphia.

I think these photos could be good subjects for paintings and I might do that if there's ever time. Just now, I'm working in three dimensions making "wood" out of clay.

So here we have the beginning of the process. After rolling out the slab of clay, I then roll a piece of driftwood across the clay.

I roll a large piece of this clay around a form - in this instance, its a large oatmeal box. I then partially dry the clay with a hair dryer so that it will be stable enough to stand upright.

Then I turn the "tree" upright and slip out the form. After it dries for about a week, covered by plastic so that it won't dry out to quickly, I'll cut the door and windows for the tree house. I'll post those photos as the tree house progresses! I'm actually making a few of these houses in different sizes to use in the forrest scene where my little bears will be playing for my table for the show! I hope you'll enjoy following along with their construction!

Looking toward Philadelphia

2011-04-06T08:43:00.000-04:00

Seeing the morning light
for the first time, Todd who was born last night will be among the little bears traveling to the show in Philadelphia in May. This show promises to be great fun so I hope you'll be able to join us!

April Showers

2011-04-04T08:51:00.000-04:00

Jason came for a visit over the weekend and he and I enjoyed a day of shopping and a movie on Saturday. As we started across the James River Bridge on our way home, a storm was brewing.

This is a good example of one of my favorite sentiments - The best camera is the one that is with you! Jason drove and I aimed my iPhone at the remarkable weather spectacle! There's a wonderful book with the title of the sentiment filled with the author's iPhone photos.

If you'll notice in this photo, the tower which holds the power lines looks like it is dancing in the rain storm. That effect is just a result of the motion of the car and the not-so-fast shutter speed of my iPhone. I heard this morning that the next iPhones will have an 8 megapixel camera on board. Wow! That certainly won't replace my Nikon, but it will be great to have in my pocket!

Fuchsia - finished!

2011-03-31T12:19:00.002-04:00

Here's a little look at Fuchsia Flower Butterfly Bear! Hopefully I'll have her Ebay listing prepared by tonight. I'll list the link at the bottom of this posting when her auction is launched! I am offering her with no reserve, a modest opening bid, and free shipping worldwide.

Who's Next to Get Her Wings?

2011-03-23T15:11:00.001-04:00

....A pretty Miss named Fuchsia - after the lovely flower of the same name. When I saw the fabric, I visualized her right away! The color combination of fuchsia and purple is just stunning. Her matching butterfly wings are almost done and then she will be complete! Check back for a final look and news of where she will be available!

Spring Returns!

2011-03-21T13:11:00.000-04:00

Hope you've enjoyed this trip around my yard. I thought about commenting on the photos, but how can one put words to nature's magnificence?

A New Page

2011-03-17T09:29:00.002-04:00

I love word play and I love Kim's photo of sleepy Beaker on her text book "page."
During the period from 2005 - 2010, I was so fortunate to have won many nominations and awards from the American teddy bear magazines. Now as I turn the "page" from this period of competition, I shall add a new "page" to the top of my site which shows these special bears. I want to thank the publications: Teddy Bear Review, Teddy Bear and Friends, and Bears and Buds, the online magazine, as well as those who nominated my bears for the awards, and especially those who voted for my bears. These awards mean so much to us teddy bear makers and I am so grateful to have been recognized in such a lovely way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
And now my very smart grand kitty shows his expertise with Kim's new Ipad and the new electronic "page."

My thanks to all for your support would fill a thousand "pages," and I hope I will continue to win your support through your kind comments on my little bears and friends. Happy St. Patrick's Day to all!!!

Bear for a Special Little Girl, Trip to Pittsburgh, and Cats in Drawers

2011-03-15T08:32:00.000-04:00

I was priviledged to be asked to make a bear for a special little girl who is yet to be born! I haven't made a "big" bear in a long time so thought I'd like to share this photo.

My trip to Pittsburgh was such fun! The hockey game took me downtown to one of the loveliest cities anywhere. One the right of the photo above is the old "igloo" where Kim and I have attended Penguins games for years. The new arena is on the left just across the street from the old landmark.

This is my favorite shot of the trip taken from inside the arena. One side of the facility is glass, offering the visitors a gorgeous view of the city's skyline. I was there just at sunset.

It was "a great day for Hockey" and this view was just to the left of the one above. The escalators are just off the glass wall.

The murals inside the arena are worth the trip just to see them! Pictured just above the giant goalie mask is Sidney Crosby - my favorite player (along with most of Pittsburgh I expect.)

Kim told me about a web site called "Cats in Sinks." I haven't check on this, but I'm sure there must also be one called "Cats in Drawers." Cleo was eager to help me pack for my recent trip and burrowed right into my rosewood dresser! I had tons of fun on my trip, and am glad to be back home starting on my spring pallet of bears and bunnies, etc. Coming soon: Fuschia Butterfly Bear!! Happy Almost Spring everyone!!!

Kitties in Sunshine, The First Daffodil, and Taking Time!

2011-03-01T08:51:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year when flocks of birdies fly from place to place looking for stores of berries. They've been in our neighborhood lately much to the delight of Rocky and Cleo. Being "inside kitties" they love looking at the birdies, but I'm not sure they know exactly why!

After such a cold winter, I was amazed to see our first little miniature daffodil popping through just a few days ago. I suppose those few days of 70 degree temperatures told the little bulbs it was time to wake up! I did check last years' postings and these precious little signs of Spring are a week earlier this year.

While I won't pick those first blossoms to enjoy indoors, I do treat myself to beautiful blooms at the market. Here's a little reminder from Rockey to "Take Time to Smell the Roses!"
Happy March Everyone!! Come on Spring!!!!!!
P. S. Check back soon for previews of new Etsy offerings for this week!

Happy Birthday Jason!

2011-02-08T08:55:00.002-05:00

The two most important dates on my calendar are today, February 8th, and December 10th. Those are the birthdays of my wonderful grown up children, Jason and Kim!

This little bunny is on his way to Jason's house in Maryland and hopefully will be delivered today. I was just there this weekend for a visit and had planned to take this little guy. Unfortunately, he wasn't finished when I left last Friday. As soon as I returned home Sunday, I started sewing to finish him up and headed to the UPS store yesterday to send him on his way. I thought it appropriate since this is the year of the rabbit! My Nikon battery was not ready to take photos yesterday, so I took this snapshot with the Iphone. I took other gifts and baked a birthday cake for Jason over the weekend, and we enjoyed some birthday shopping while I was there. Let's hope this little bunny (he gets to name him) will arrive to help him celebrate again today!

P. S. I am happy to report that Little Bunny arrived on schedule in time to let Jason know how very special he and his birthday are to me! L. B. doesn't have a name yet but is well loved already!!!!

Change

2011-01-21T08:52:00.001-05:00

When one seeks to change something that is very small to begin with, the changes are....well, small. Toward the end of last year, I began looking at my very small bears and thinking of how I might give them a new look. I carried one little "Daniel" to the Hunt Valley show and he was adopted very quickly - without my taking anything but a snapshop of him with his new Mom. Others saw him and are awaiting more of this new little guy.
So here's what I've done. This new little man has a smaller (not shorter) snout, smaller nose, shorter legs, and ears that are sort of pointed toward the back of his head. So far, I've kept the wired arms which are so handy for carrying flowers, candy, iPhones, etc.
I haven't abandoned the little face and body which I've been making, but as in all things, change is inevitable, and change is good.
Toward the end of a workday, he and I were admiring that "golden hour" that comes in the early evening, and he agreed to pose for a few "artsy" shots.

2011-01-13T09:48:00.005-05:00

At a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarized -- at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who happen to think differently than we do -- it's important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we're talking with each other in a way that heals, not in a way that wounds.

We are reminded that in the fleeting time we have on this Earth, what matters is not wealth, or status, or power, or fame -- but rather, how well we have loved --

President Barack Obama

These words were from the speech President Obama gave last night at the Memorial in Arizona. You can see the entire text of the speech here:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/12/obama-arizona-memorial-sp_n_808335.html

Icy Gifts

2011-01-12T11:37:00.000-05:00

This last visit of Nature's winter gusto left delightful sparkles. We had no great mounds of snow this time, but glorious little gifts reflecting today marvelous sunshine - especially if you look closely!

The holly leaves look as though they are wearing delightful dangly earrings!

A New Recipe - Tomato Bisque Soup

2011-01-05T09:56:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I tried a new recipe and I thought I'd pass it along. One of my favorite things to have is Tomato Bisque Soup. I had never tried to make it but love having the restaurant kind. So, in the often used phrase of one of my favorite tv shows from the BBC (the show is Top Gear by the way - and I know nothing about cars - just love the presenters): "How hard can it be?" I searched online for recipes and then went shopping. I sort of made it up as I went along.

Here's what I used:
1 can of petite diced tomatoes (28 ounce can - I think it was Hunts)
1 can of vegetarian vegetable broth (14.5 ounce can)
2 TBS of tomato paste
1/2 medium onion finely diced
1 TBS sugar
Salt and Pepper to taste. I like a lot of black pepper!
A dash of Oregano
1/2 to 3/4 cup cream (you could use half and half or just milk if you'd rather)

Here's what I did:
Saute the onion in a couple of teaspoons of olive oil. Add the big can of diced tomatoes, the vegetable broth (you could use chicken broth as most of the recipes I read used it), the tomato paste, sugar, salt and pepper, and oregano. Let this simmer for 15 minutes or so. Be sure to taste so that you can adjust the seasonings. Then add the cream and let it come to a boil again. It's just about ready to eat then. Lower the heat and simmer until you are ready to serve it. Serve with some crusty bread for dipping.
The recipes I read said to puree the tomatoes, but we liked the texture of the tomatoes and onions in soup. I can't tell you if the leftovers heat up well as there was none left! I think this could serve 4 people if your bowls are medium size, but if it's the main course it will serve 2 nicely.

And so as not to make this a dull post, here's a cute photo of Beaker in front of the Christmas tree shortly before he and Kim left to go back to Pittsburgh.

Mr. Big Eyes

More Snow, Birthday Fun, and the Further Adventures of Beaker and Rocky

2010-12-27T15:14:00.000-05:00

Snow on Bare Branches

At the end of the snowfall, we had accumulated 14.2 inches - third highest amount in recorded history for the Hampton Roads area of Virginia!

As my birthday plans were changed by the record snowfall, Jason baked "Birthday Cookies" for me. Kim layered a couple and added a candle. I was seranaded by "Happy Birthday To You" and got to make the traditional Birthday Wish!
And for all you Rocky and Beaker fans, I thought I'd pass on some of their antics during the package wrapping before Christmas:

Beaker makes the crucial fold in the wrapping while Rocky adds words of encouragement.

Not ones to miss a good opportunity for fun, the boys gathered the scraps of wrapping paper and made a mess!

And Miss Cleo, dignified in her Zen-like elegance, can't be bothered with the boy's mischief. She simply enjoys nature's bounty!

A White Birthday!

2010-12-26T19:37:00.000-05:00

My Front Yard

Today is my 64th Birthday! and I woke up to what became the biggest snowfall I've seen here in southern Virginia. It was a great day which went a little different than planned, but Jason and Kim were both at home so that made it just the best birthday I could have hoped for. I don't think we quite expected all this snow, but by golly, it is beautiful.

My Street

Kitty Fun - Oh Christmas Tree!!

2010-12-19T19:43:00.000-05:00

Rocky supervises the lights testing.

Last year Rocky and Cleo were still kittens so we opted to forego a Christmas tree with lights and ornaments. I did, however, decorate with trees. I placed real little trees of all kinds throughout the house. This year, Kim and Beaker are visiting and we've decided to give it a try.

Beaker checks to see if the tree is straight.

Please be assured that these kitties were well supervised through the decorating process and not one of them has attempted to climb the tree...yet.

Rocky admires their handywork.

Beaker adjusts a string of lights to even the coverage.

Pretty Miss Cleo just relaxes in her puffy bed while the boys do all the work.

Whose woods these are I think I know...

2010-12-14T22:17:00.001-05:00

We are fortunate to have woods on our property and they looked quite magical with yesterday's snow.

The snowfall was quite unexpected. We thought we may see "flurries" but it just kept coming!

Nature is full of wonderful gifts!

Wonderful Story

2010-12-09T06:25:00.000-05:00

A story of two horses

Here is a thoughtful story that was forwarded to us that we wanted to share...

Just up the road from my home is a field,with two horses in it. From a distance, each looks like every other horse. But if you stop your car, or are walking by, you will notice something quite amazing. Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down,but has made a good home for him.

This alone is amazing.

If nearby and listening, you will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to her halter is a small bell. It lets her blind friend know where she is, so he can follow her.As you stand and watch these two friends, you'll see how she is always checking on him, and that he will listen for her bell and then slowly walk to where she is, trusting that she will not lead him astray. When she returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, she stops occasionally and looks back, making sure her friend isn't too far behind to hear the bell.

Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges. He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need.

Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by the little ringing bell of those who God places in our lives. Other times we are the guide horse, helping others see. Good friends are like this .......... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there. Please listen for my bell and I'll listen for yours. "Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle"

More photos from Kim

2010-12-07T06:45:00.000-05:00

The Iphone magic continues! Kim and a friend enjoyed a Pittsburgh Penguins Hockey game last night at the new Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh. She was fortunate enough to go down by the ice and snap this picture of the team Captain and league leading scorer - and all around great guy: Sidney Crosby. This was with one of the cameras on her new Iphone 4.

With the camera on the other side of her Iphone, she took this delightful portrait. Oh, and, that was after she got home. Beaker did not attend the game.The resolution isn't as high with that camera, but produces a fine photo nonetheless!

I'm happy to report that the Pens won that game last night putting them in the number one spot in the NHL. Kim and I are super fans of the team and we regularly text back and forth during the games. Love that new technology.

Snow for Beaker

2010-12-05T13:18:00.000-05:00

Back home in "The Burgh" Beaker is fascinated with their snowfall this morning. I marvel at Kim's photographic and composition skills as I know how high that window is.....and she sent me the photo from her Iphone! She reports Pittsburgh may get 5 to 8 inches. Brrrrrrrrrrr!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T08:06:00.001-05:00

We are well into the Beaker visit. He arrived and was a little aprehensive at first but that lasted only a very few minutes. In reviewing the photos I've taken up to now, I mostly see blurs. Beaker and his cousin Rocky are one constant motion. I did manage a few when Beaker was peering out through the bannister of my stairs.
I am so thankful for Kim to be able to visit and for all our little family to be together this Thanksgiving. Kim and Beaker will soon return to Pittsburgh and Jason will be moving to Maryland on Monday. This is a very busy time!
Blessings to everyone. I am so thankful for family and friends - those with two legs and four!

Rocky and Max

2010-11-22T08:41:00.001-05:00

My little scruffy panda wasn't done in time for the group photo which is shown on my header so I thought he deserved a little attention. Rocky loves to help me on my work table so here he is with Max
Many thanks to Daphne Blau for her wonderful show this past weekend on http://www.teddiesworldwide.com/. She reports over 7000 folks visited during the show. There's going to be a Spring online show, so visit for information!
My three scruffy creatures are headed to new homes. I'm always a little nervous to offer something completely different, but I do love these scruffy guys!

A "Beaker" Photo

2010-11-20T20:06:00.000-05:00

Well, isn't my grand kitty, Beaker, adorable?? Sound asleep after reading The Hockey News.

Showtime Today!!

2010-11-20T07:48:00.001-05:00

The Online Show will begin at 9:00 a.m EST (New York Time) this morning!
I hope you will visit!!!
http://www.teddiesworldwide.com/
When you go to this website, just click on the artist whose show page you wish to visit. There will be a banner on the page for you to click to return to the main page of the show. Each artist is conducting his or her own sales so check on the individual pages for adoption directions.
Have tons of fun!!
I feel so fortunate that all three of my pieces in the online show have been adopted! Thanks everyone!

Scruffy, Floppy, and Fun!

2010-11-17T22:00:00.000-05:00

"Old Friends" - Thomas and Barnaby

The online show at http://www.teddiesworldwide.com/ is almost here! Please check out the web site for show times in your local plus a fabulous preview page. My new header shows two of my pieces for the show. They are brand new for me and my first adventure into the scruffy bear world. I took the two pictured here to a lunch date with a couple of friends and approved the new design. I shall have one other piece in the online show so I hope you'll drop by the show this weekend. These two were also in my current ad for Teddy Bear Review. They are 9 inches tall, made from scruffy, sparse mohair which I've tea dyed and ruffed up a bit. Now here's the way it will work: You must go to the site listed above and then click on the artist whose work you want to see. Everyone participating will have show banners on the top and bottom of the page and you can click on the banners at any time to take you back to the main show page - then you can choose another artist to visit! There are 75 artists, so you should have a fun time clicking around!! Each person will have adoption procedures for you to follow. How much fun is that!!! Be sure to go now to see the previews. Wow are there some fabulous bears!!!!!!!!!

There and Back Again

2010-11-14T19:24:00.004-05:00

The Hunt Valley Show was spectacular as ususal! The table settings were very creative and the bears and other creatures were grand. I'm thrilled to pass along that my little ones were all adopted by the end of the first hour of the show. I'd like to share some photos with you of happy collectors, happy artists, and happy bears!

One of my favorites at the show by Daphne Blau. Daphne is promoting the online show at Teddies Worldwide next Saturday. Do join us at http://www.teddiesworldwide.com/

Jared Monore of Jare Hares and Bears. Wisit him and his delightful creations at http://www.jarehares.com/

Found amongst her wonderful bears, birds, etc. is Cindy Malchoff of My Apple Tree....AND one of my roommates for the weekend. Cindy is the TBAI Chairman and does a fabulous job of organizing that show each year. You can contact her at http://www.tbai.org/ Her website is http://www.myappletree.com/

Wanda Carson of Carson Creations and Sue Van Natten of Bearlooms. Two sweet, sweet ladies I am proud to call my friends.
You can reach them here:
Wanda:http://www.carsoncreations.net/
Sue: bearlooms@frontiernet.net

Brilliant artists Virginia Jasmer and Tami Eveslage. I've been fortunate enough to see and enjoy Virginia's work for many years and Tami and I shared a very special evening a few years ago when we were each honored with a TOBY public's choice award. We happened to be sitting at the same table and thought the evening was indeed maghttp://www.insidemystudio.blogspot.com/ical. You can find Virginia at

http://www.jazzbears.com/ and Tami at http://www.insidemystudio.blogspot.com/

The Bear Scout, Felicia Hymer, gathers some of the best bears ever. I've been so fortunate to know Felicia for a few years and love being able to see her at shows from time to time. You can get in touch with Felicia at: http://thebearscout.com/

Artist Daphne Blau and collector and Veterinarian (and good friend) Andrea Shinn. Daphne's web site is http://www.backroadbears.com/

Susan McKay of Bears of the Abbey. Susan, her husband Mark and Alex and Janet Wilson were the promoters for the show and all wore snow men and ladies costumes! Susan's web site is:
http://www.bearsoftheabbey.com/

So sweet bears by Wanda Carson.

Sue Van Natten of Bearlooms. Her bears are delightful. I hope you will see them in person. One of her bears won the Best in Show at the TOBY awards not long ago.

Darlene Allen, my good friend (and roommate for the show) creates the magnificent Raspberry Bears. Please visit her Blog at http://www.raspberrybears.com/ I first met Darlene at TBAI and so look forward to visiting at the shows. She's lucky enough to live in my home state of Florida. I think of that when I'm freezing in the winter. Her wonderful smile makes me feel warmer immediately!!

Dear Friend and Collector Jamie enjoying her new little "ely."

The costumes were amazing. Here's Margaret Jackson and her husband . Margaret's web site is: http://www.pinneybears.com/

and of course there has to be!

Lucky me! I was just across the isle from award winning Maggie Spackman! I had some time to chat with her and see her fabulous "Minikins." Please visit her website at:
http://www.maggiesminikins.com/
I hope I will see Maggie again soon! What a delight she is and her artistry with her miniature marvels is unequaled.
I took other photos but am not sure if I asked the permission of those in the photos to put them on my Blog. I'm pretty sure all the above said "OK!"
My special thanks to the McKays and the Wilsons for putting on a fabulous show and allowing me to be a part of it. I'm already looking forward to next year! For information on next year's show or other shows produced by Teddy Bears on Vacation just visit here:
http://www.teddybearsonvacation.com/Index.html

Tree Houses for Hunt Valley

2010-11-09T19:40:00.001-05:00

The "tree houses" for my little woodland friends are just about done. They were closely inspected by the kitties when I brought them home from the art center. The first photos show them as they look after being fired twice in the kiln. I used three different values for the trees themselves and Rocky inspected my pallet. With his extra digit, I expect him to put that paw right in the paint any time! The final touch was putting the spots on the mushrooms. I am lighting them with tiny battery operated tea lights so that they don't have to be near an electrical outlet. The only thing missing in the final photos are the branches of holly that I'll put in the top. I don't want to cut those until I am just ready to leave for the show. I'll take some photos of the table with the little friends playing among the houses, building snow bears and bunnies and riding on a sleigh.

Beaker kitty update!

2010-11-04T07:58:00.000-04:00

My little Grand Kitty is growing by leaps and bounds! Kim reports he's full of energy and likes the normal kitty things - especially bugs - which you can see in some of these photos. I can't wait to see him when they come to visit at Thanksgiving!

Beezer's Big Night!

2010-10-29T19:21:00.001-04:00

Beezer will be on Ebay this evening. I hope you will stop by and visit the auction. Here are some of the photos I've used.
As soon as the auction launches, I'll put the link right here!

Here's the link to Beezer's auction:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110605015949&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT
I hope you will visit!

How Sweet is This?

2010-10-29T07:38:00.000-04:00

I'll be listing Beezer on Ebay this evening and will put more photos of him here later in the day. I just couldn't resist this photo for this morning. I made a little elephant several years ago named Milo. Well, I am just nuts for the even smaller bears and friends now, so had to try my hand at a Baby Milo. This is a little girl and I had a beautiful little hand dyed silk ribbon for her to wear on her ear. I've made the inside of her ears a pretty fuzzy pink and the ribbon has just a slight touch of pink on its edges. She'll be going to the Hunt Valley Show and hopes to see you there!

Baby Milo

Sneek Peak for Beezer!

2010-10-28T07:34:00.000-04:00

"Beezer"

Tomorrow evening I'll list Lady Buggly's gardening chum, Beezer, on Ebay. He was a Golden Teddy Nominee this year and is one of a kind.

Lady Buggly on Ebay Tonight!

2010-10-22T07:40:00.001-04:00

I will "launch" the Ebay auction for Lady Buggly tonight about 9 p.m. EDT. I shall put the link right here once the auction is under way. The auction will be for 5 days and there will be no reserve. I do hope you will take a look! The template I'm using is so pretty.
Here's the link for Lady Buggly's auction: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110602045386&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Sneak Peek for Lady Buggly!

2010-10-21T09:37:00.000-04:00

This "peek" won't be so sneaky as Lady Buggly has already been seen. I've been busy with more photos (Jason's help again here) and getting the template ready to launch tomorrow for Lady B's appearance on Ebay. She'll be the offering for Fuzzy Friends Friday this week!

I just love these little photos and wanted to share them. There will be even more on Ebay and I'll have a link here tomorrow once the auction is launched.

Oops!

2010-10-19T10:14:00.000-04:00

Well, I've posted the pear pin cushion adventure with "Part Two" appearing before "Part One." So sorry! Hope you will scroll down for the beginning.