I perfectly realise that Australia is not what is generally considered to be ‘Bear’ territory (although I hear we do have Bear Markets on the Stock Exchange… hmm-m-m).  Of course, there is our national hero and much beloved Koala Bear.  He has received many accolades and highly emotive and in-depth media coverage… not all positive.  We are reminded here of a certain politician (or ‘pollie’ in ‘Strine’ – Australian), who met with a damp reception whilst cuddling a Koala for the cameras (shouldn’t have clutched him so tightly, I say).

I’m unbearably slow at this bit… think I’ll let Mum type, and I’ll tell.

Ahh-h-h no…  I refer to the Teddy Bear – who occupies a large part of the hearts of the peoples of our World.  Just read this excerpt from the precious book ‘Teddy Bears – A Celebration in Words and Paintings’ selected by Helen Exley –

‘The speed with which the world’s children took to the Teddy Bear was nothing short of amazing, and soon the little creatures were making friends all round the globe – and of all ages too…  Today, as the output worldwide shows no sign of decreasing, it is probably fair to say that the Teddy Bear’s appeal has outlived and outlasted all other mascot animals.            –  Philippa and Peter Waring, from ‘Teddy Bears’ Continue reading →