My Doll Haven

Everyone Needs Playtime

In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing.

When we carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well.

There doesn’t need to be any point to the activity beyond having fun and enjoying yourself. By giving yourself permission to play with the joyful abandon of childhood, you can reap oodles of health benefits throughout life.

Saturday

The Three Bears

Same basic traditional pattern, three different colours and types of mohair.

The first is medium density kid which is very soft and curly, the other two are medium density mohair and while still having a nice handle, they are a little coarser than the kid, the last being a little straighter than the second.

I wonder how their personalities will develop? Are they boys or girls? I guess we will have to wait and see. Have a great weekend my friends!

Friday

Reaching for the Stars

I thought you might like to see the Star Trophies I selected to present to the Nominees for The Australasian Creative Design Awards this year and my reason for choosing them.

Star Trophies recognise an improvement in skill and workmanship, and receiving a Star Trophy means the Nominee has reached a pinnacle.

Down through the ages stars have been important to civilisations throughout the world. They have provided an element of mystery and wonder. A star shines brightly and is often a guiding light, and so to me, a star appropriately represents the achievement of the nominated artists.

This competition called for artists to experiment and to try something completely different from the pieces they normally create. It's easy to submit an entry into a competition that is in a similar style to what we have mastered over time. It takes real courage to to step out of our comfort zone and submit a prototype for judging.

There were some who took baby steps in design and others that plunged right in, but to me, all these girls showed initiative. They are leaders in the field of soft sculpture and teddy bear artistry, and they should be proud of their accomplishments.

P.S. I noticed on this post some of you thought I was entering the competition. This is not so, I am just the event planner. I will have bears available for adoption at the Fantasy Ball though.

Introducing Tani

I have been busily working away in my studio this week and finally I have something to show for it!

This is Tani (Japanese: from the valley) my newest little Chibi. I am so pleased with this new design and can't wait to provide him with a few brothers and sisters. I try not to become so excited about or attached to my own creations as I know they will soon be departing for lands unknown. But this one really has captured my attention!

HE HAS FOUND A NEW HOME!