Flutter-By Bears and Friends

Micro doggies waiting....

2009-12-04T01:45:00.000-08:00

"How do you do .... what's your name ?"

These 2 tiny dogs - "Gypsy", on the left , and "Bran", right , are waiting to hear from a collector with first refusal on them . Sometimes I prefer to do things this way rather than take a firm order for a specific colour , type and design . It may be that neither little dog will suit ; and that is absolutely fine . I personally only add pieces that I totally adore to my own collection :0)

They may "prefer" to stay home with me a little longer - we'll see ......

If anybody else out there is interested in a little 1.4" tall dog (for life not just for Christmas !) please do let me know ....

T.T.F.N Ruth XX

(Micro dogs £60 GBP each)

Festive Swap

2009-11-26T01:18:00.000-08:00

Now that the Teddy Annual 2010 has appeared on the news stands I can reveal my swap piece exchanged in the TBACA Christmas swap with Robyn Roe of Mima's Bears . Before posting off to Queensland this little pair had a photo shoot for their place in the "Teddy at Christmas" feature inside the Annual - in fact the final one used was without the dog's bed ; so here it is above .

Josh (bear) is 3" tall , made from an Old Gold Vintage Long Pile Upholstery Velvet - with a glittered felt scarf , and Holly (dog) is 1.4" tall , made in off white and tan Long Pile. As you can see they're about to hang up their felt stockings , full of anticipation !

I was very honoured (and delighted) to be asked to contribute a piece for Kathy's festive feature , and the magazine is such a marvellous bear-filled treat . In addition to that I had a really lovely time swapping with Robyn . I received an adorable alpaca panda from her ; "Xiao-Xing". She has such a sweet little face and I was absolutely thrilled to welcome her in to my own small Hug :0)

T.T.F.N ,
Ruth XX

Ready For My Close-Up Now Mr.DeMille ....

2009-11-19T02:39:00.000-08:00

Teddy Hugs.

Do you have a moment please
To give this bear just one small squeeze?
'Cos teddy bears need hugs to live…
So don’t you have just one to give?

(Anon)

Ashley has been experimenting with a more intimate portraiture of my bears . Sometimes I do think that elements of their characters can be missed when seeing "the bigger picture" - and it is really important to me that my little creations , although very small ,are still full of communicative expression . I love it when they are mistaken for much bigger bears !
Well ; it's a bit of a grand and wordy way of introducing some close-up photos ! :0)

These were taken in natural light , with a hand held 50mm 1.8 standard Nikon lens with a 21mm extension tube.
So there you go ...

I think this style would make some great cards , or even calendars eventually - they look sort of pensive and arty don't they ?

Top to bottom the girls are : Tara -( adopted) , Martha and Ella .

T.T.F.N Ruth xx

A Nomination !

2009-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

I was highly delighted to receive news that I've been nominated in the Single Miniature Bear category of the British Bear Artist awards with this little 3" girl above ; "Party-Time Tiffany".
My son brought the post in , and I was genuinely surprised when I opened the letter from the organiser and out fell this lovely , sunny rosette !

I'm so glad that I decided to enter - it is quite a commitment to get to the final judging event in Hove - but in the end I gave myself one chance by entering just one category only ; and what would be would be :0) Well , I have a hotel booked now , and I'm anticipating having a lovely weekend away with my husband and youngest son. We'll explore Tunbridge Wells on the Saturday (where there are 2 National Trust castles .... with moats !!) and then on to the British Bear Fair on the Sunday .

Woohooo ; I'm feeling really excited now !

T.T.F.N Ruth XX

Fun Award !

2009-11-10T01:06:00.001-08:00

Many thanks to Elanor of Shantock Bears for passing along this fun award /Tag list . I've never tried to answer anything in only one word before ( I can't even use just 5 words when 25 convey exactly what you mean ! LOL ) so I've had to leave my "Anne of Green Gables" head off this morning . Visit Elanor's blog to see how she answered - and drop in on her beautiful bears and mice too .

Rules :-
1. Use only 1 word answers.
2. Pass along to 6 of you favourite bloggers.
3. Tell them you've given them the award.
4. Have Fun !!

1. Where is your cell phone? "Huh?"
2. Your hair? Annoying

3. Your mother? Precious
4. Your father? Admirable
5. Your favorite food? Curries
6. Your dream last night? Comforting
7. Your favorite drink? Tea
8. Your dream/goal? Togetherness
9. What room are you in? Dining
10. Your hobby ? Bears !

11. Your fear? Unthinkable
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Contented
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. Something that you aren’t? Unrealistic
15. Muffins? Occasionally :0)
16. Wish list item? 'Pool
17. Where did you grow up? Hertfordshire

18. Last thing you did? Dressed
19. What are you wearing? Bleuechh !
20. Your TV? Informative
21. Your pets? Gorgeous

22. Friends? Similar
23. Your life? Busy
24. Your mood? Hopeful
25. Missing someone? Family
26. Vehicle? "Chauffeured" !! :0)
27. Something you’re not wearing? Tiara (;0)
28. Your favorite store? Hobbycraft
29. Your favorite color? PINK
30. When was the last time you laughed? Morning
31. Last time you cried? Today
32. Your best friend? Husband
33. One place that I go to over and over? Hobbycraft !!
34. One person who emails me regularly? Yes
35. Favorite place to eat? Together

As this is a bit of fun I've decided to include a completely random pic as well (why not ? It's Tuesday ???) Ashley took this at Longleat Safari Park this summer.This unfortunate creature is obviously having a Bad-Hair Day like me!!

I'll pass on the Award to :
Gail at Walnut Tree Corner Bears
Sandi , Bearly Sane Teddies ,
Tina of TinyBear ,
Robyn at Mima's Bears ,
Pauline , Valewood Bears and
Sue of FenBeary Folk So please don't forget to visit them soon .

'Till Next Time ,

Huggies , Ruth XX

A Little Treat

2009-10-28T04:24:00.001-07:00

"If only I could read" sighed Tiddy

I treated myself to a little something at the weekend , whilst visiting the bookstore Waterstones . It was an extra specially rare treat because it was completely F.R.E.E ! Those are always the best sort of treats for people who can be a bit cynical about "looking for the catch".
I read a review of the brand new tales of Winnie-the-Pooh in the Telegraph . It's an authorised , sympathetic sequel to the previous adventures of Pooh and all his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood , and I was enchanted , not the least by the introduction of a new female character ; Lottie the otter (which just happens to be one of my favourite creatures)

My son made a beeline for one of those tables mounded up with kids' hardback books and pleaded for Charlie Higson's new novel "The Enemy" . Glancing at it tetchily I noticed a Buy One Get One Free ( or BOGOF as we all know and love it :0) ) sticker on the cover - then joy of joys amongst the others was the new Pooh book too (ooooh seems even I can emulate A.A Milne !!) so with a quick flick through and no further ado .... I rushed off to the cash desk bearing my prize!

I have a special little soft spot for cuddly Winnie-the-Pooh who , having first been published in 1926 , is around the same age as my father . I have a distinct memory of looking through a paperback edition when I was only 3 and wishing I could decipher all that unintelligible code between the pages because I was certain there was a wonderful story in there which was being denied to me !
Later on another of A.A.Milne's works ; "When We Were Very Young", containing over 40 poems, was my favourite introduction to the lilting sound of words in verse - despite the fact it was first published in 1924 and harked back to a long gone era of Nannies and nursery teas . In fact I delighted in the utter charm of it ! As far as I can remember bears featured in several places .... particularly when little children stepped on the "lines" between paving stones so materialising them even in the middle of London!

I mean to enjoy my new book as soon as possible - maybe cosied up in the evening with a little dog on my lap , and perhaps a "little smackerel of something" to keep me going .... Tiddly Pom ....

T.T.F.N , Ruth XX

Trafalgar Day

2009-10-21T02:36:00.001-07:00

This is a maritime flavoured post as today is Trafalgar Day , commemorating the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 ; made famous by the heroism of Vice Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson who finally removed all fear of this country's invasion (it was thought to be imminent) , though at the cost of his own life . I know it is Trafalgar Day because it is also my father's birthday - "Happy Birthday" if you are reading this ! An amusing family anecdote tells that his own Grandmother insisted he should be named Trafford in honour of the day ! His parents preferred Reginald however - and "stuck to their guns" !

It has been suggested in the past that Trafalgar Day would make an ideal public holiday ; a suggestion ultimately quashed for being "offensive" to other countries (??) I think we are all quite capable of feeling a national pride in our past heroes whilst also putting their actions firmly in to historical context . Nelson was definitely a charismatic figure ; and after all he's been standing on top of that 170ft high Column in Trafalgar Square since 1840.

A few facts :-

*Nelson was only 5ft 4" tall.

*He joined the navy at age 12 , and suffered from sea-sickness , and recurring bouts of dysentery and malaria throughout his service.

* His arm was amputated with no anaesthetic during which he complained of the "cold" knives . He was also blinded in one eye.

*Before the Battle of Trafalgar he sent a famed signal to the fleet : "England expects that every man will do his duty"

*He wore full dress uniform with all his medals , remaining visible in the line of fire throughout , and was easily picked out by a sniper who shot him in the back.

* His renowned last words ; "Kiss me , Hardy" may actually have been "Kismet , Hardy" nobody is certain which he was referring to ; friendship or his fate ?At least he knew the battle was over before he died .

*His body was sent back to England in a barrel full of brandy , which preserved his remains on the long journey home .

Nelson's ship HMS Victory can still be visited in dry dock at Portsmouth . It was built between 1759 and 1765 , and is now the oldest commissioned ship in the world . I've actually been on it myself when I was a small girl , and I remember finding it fascinating and horrifying in equal degrees ; the decks are unbelievably cramped , the surgeonry was little above butchery and you can see the actual spot where Nelson died .

Here's to another 169 years up on the Column Lord Nelson !

T.T.F.N
Ruth xx

A Song of Autumn

2009-10-09T05:44:00.000-07:00

There is a definite chilly tang to the air in the mornings and evenings bringing the turn of the season , and the end of the year even closer. I hope all those excited little baby Goldfinches tuck themselves up warmly at night ! I've probably mentioned before that I dislike all the plastic pumpkin-a-rama tat that shops insist on spilling off their shelves at this time ... but I do like a more gentle celebration of Autumn ; this poem is just wonderful and really deserves to be read aloud.

A Song of Autumn by Adam Lindsay Gordon

‘WHERE shall we go for our garlands glad
At the falling of the year,
When the burnt-up banks are yellow and sad,
When the boughs are yellow and sere?
Where are the old ones that once we had,
And when are the new ones near?
What shall we do for our garlands glad
At the falling of the year?’
‘Child! can I tell where the garlands go?
Can I say where the lost leaves veer
On the brown-burnt banks, when the wild winds blow,
When they drift through the dead-wood drear?
Girl! when the garlands of next year glow,
You may gather again, my dear—
But I go where the last year’s lost leaves go
At the falling of the year.

T.T.F.N ,
Ruth xx

I've been so , sewwww busy !!

2009-09-28T05:48:00.001-07:00

I'm currently using every minute of every day to complete a first batch of Limited Edition pieces for Teddy Bears of Witney - I was ridiculously excited when I received the beautiful 2010 catalogue in the post ! I can honestly say , with hand on heart , that I'm proud to be contributing 2 designs to such a gorgeous selection .... I'd love one of all of them ; it's a bruin-feast for the eyes !

Next up I have a swap to complete and a secret magazine project ;0) .... and then a few more L/E pieces (some of them are already sold !)

T.T.F.N Ruth xx

**I have a great P.S to add here ; rush on over to Sandi Smith's "Bearly Sane - Blog of a Bear Nut" to take part in her wonderful Pay It Forward Giveaway - leave a comment on the P.I.F post and your name could be drawn for a delightful prize such as this journal and notebook bound in handmade paper. Entries by Monday 5th October - go on have a go !

(Photo courtesy of Sandi Smith)

Nearly the Best Thing in the V & A ...(Nostalgia Alert !)

2009-09-14T02:35:00.000-07:00

Prince Charming (By Adam Ant/marco pirroni)

Don't you ever, don't you ever
Stop being dandy, showing me you're handsome
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Stop being dandy, showing me you're handsome

Prince charming
Prince charming
Ridicule is nothing to be scared of
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Stop being dandy, showing me you're handsome

Don't you ever, don't you ever
Lower yourself, forgetting all your standards
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Lower yourself, forgetting all your standards

Prince charming
Prince charming
Ridicule is nothing to be scared of
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Stop being dandy, showing me you're handsome

Silk or leather or a feather
Respect yourself and all of those around you
Silk or leather or a feather
Respect yourself and all of those around you

Prince charming
Prince charming
Ridicule is nothing to be scared of
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Stop being dandy, showing me you're handsome

Don't you ever, don't you ever
Lower yourself, forgetting all your standards
Don't you ever, don't you ever
Lower yourself, forgetting all your standards

Prince charming
Prince charming
Ridicule is nothing to be scared of
Prince charming
Prince charming
Ridicule is nothing to be scared of..

I had a wonderful day at Hugglets on sunday ... but I spent the day before going round the Victoria and Albert Museum - and you certainly can't see everything in a day- and I couldn't wait to get up to the Theatrical Gallery because I knew Adam Ant's (aka Stuart Goddard's ) Prince Charming costume was up there ! Ohhhh , how my sister and I used to love that song video , right at the height of New Romantic popularity ! Goodness , how I sighed and drooled over that Boho'/ N.A Indian /Regency Buck look he had going on ! Well , it gave me enormous pleasure to see the outfit right up close ... wasn't that keen on Jimmy Page's suit and Elton John's bicycle costume in the same case though . They just weren't Ant-tastic to me :0)

Look at this amazing glass chandelier in the V & A entrance hall as well - it was spectacular in scale and design .

All in all it was a tiring , but totally enjoyable weekend ; Hugglets is just the most fantastic venue to be around bears (and their people) and I was really pleased with how I did . Although my 3 hamsters were universally admired , and many people commented on them, they have all come home with me ... perhaps they're a bit too naughty ?? :0P

Ta Ta For Now ,
Ruth xx

Quick Pics !

2009-09-11T03:37:00.000-07:00

I've just got time to post these Hugglets Preview pics ; 3 hamsters (Ginger Nut , Marzipan , and Fudgie)- pretty vintage-y "Esme" and 3 all-fours micro bears which are 9 tenths of an inch high by 1.1" long .

Must fly back to my preparations now ,I'm so looking forward to the Fair ; I can't wait !

Mini Hugs ,
Ruth xx

Chatsworth Marbles

2009-09-04T01:22:00.000-07:00

As time is short I thought I'd share some interesting photos with you over the next couple of posts , whilst keeping my chat (or typing finger) in check !

These are all marble statues from Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, which was the home of Georgiana - who was portrayed by Keira Knightly in the film "Duchess".

Ashley took some great shots in this "sculpture room" which contained some extraordinary pieces ; like the enormous lions (at least 3 times life size) and delicately realised dogs which I had to resist stroking . I find it fascinating that these statues are fashioned from material which is aeons in the making , and I'm sure the sculptor took a very long time to finish each one , and yet quite a few seem to capture a fleeting moment ; a freeze-frame of an instant . Who knew that such transience was held within those slowly evolved blocks of rock ?

I find many of the statues' hands , and faces extremely beautiful - also folds of cloth and feathers ; they are moving and somehow peaceful . Their artists were masters of their medium and their work can still take your breath away .

Until next time ,
T.T.F.N Ruth x

How Goes the Work ??

2009-08-24T03:13:00.001-07:00

Progress Report :

Well , it is a bit slow with my Hugglets bears .... but at least I've got most of their little faces on , so that their bodies are not too far behind , having already been stuffed . I have got a lot more to do on the hamsters , and I may have to cross my fingers that I get them finished at all ! Pesky little rodents ...

Of course , not having a holiday would've helped (sewing-wise at least) but then I wouldn't have had the pleasure of criss-crossing the country - Peak District to Somerset - taking in such delights as Chatsworth House , Clifton Suspension Bridge , the S.S.Great Britain , Roman Baths (again this year - whoopee !) on our tour of Bath , with ultra-civilised lunch at The Pump Room , and Longleat safari park and house .... not to mention the fantabulous production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "Iolanthe" which the 3 of us so enjoyed at Buxton Opera House ...... pheeeewwwww !!! There's a lot to be said for compressing summer in to a week - and quite a bit more on the subject of all those hotel breakfasts ;when inclusive stuff yourself like you habitually eat that much in the mornings ! Hmmmm , about half a stone more to be said probably - LOL !

Anyway , time is flying on and after so much gadding about I must get back to my needles .
Just time to say a big , heartfelt "Thank you" to Elanor over at Shantock Bears for passing me the Uber Amazing Blog Award - I am so delighted to receive this from such a lovely lady and her beautiful bears and friends :0)

"Uber (synonym to Super) Amazing Blog Award is a blog award given to sites who :
* inspire you
* make you smile and laugh
* or maybe gives amazing information
* a great read
* has an amazing design
* and any other reasons you can think of that make them Uber Amazing !

The rules of this award are :
* put the logo on your blog or post
*nominate at least 5 blogs (can be more) that for you are Uber Amazing !
*let them know that they have received this Uber Amazing award by commenting on their blog.
*share the love and link to the post and person who you received the award from ."

Many thanks Elanor , I'll be passing the award on ASAP .

Ta Ta For Now , Ruth xx

The Ship of the Fens

2009-08-17T01:44:00.001-07:00

Before I explain the title can I just advise this is a very long post photo wise so you may wish to get a cup of tea :0) Also , don't forget to click the pics for a larger view .

When I was staying at my parents' house Ashley and I decided to visit Ely Cathedral - the family had stayed away since the admission fee was introduced some years ago , but with time on our hands, and a hankering for architecture, the time felt right . I was also intrigued to read in the paper that there is a stained glass museum on site ..... I didn't know at that point that I would be getting really close to some of the windows themselves ; high , high up near the ceiling !! (what after that post about vertigo ??)

Apparently it costs the diocese of Ely 1 million pounds a year to keep this breath-taking place of worship open - so I have no problem at all with them quite rightly asking casual visitors to contribute to its upkeep . In the past I have felt slightly uncomfortable in these devotional "spaces" but I would urge anyone - no matter their creed or background to enter here without worry , and soak in all there is to see whilst the tranquil peace , built up over centuries , soothes and calms you .

Of course you will need to look upward in here - crane your neck right back in fact to see the most awe-inspiring art and embellishment . The central body of the cathedral dates back to the 14 Hundreds , and was added to through the ages . It is easy to see why it is often referred to as "The Ship of The Fens" ; it was believed that the cathedral held its congregation much like a ship - sailing to salvation - whilst the word "nave" comes from a latin navigational word . The Fens are a vast , flat expanse of land (which had to be drained and dyked to farm it ) and Ely was known as the "isle of Ely" , even having its own docks .Imagine seeing the magnificent white and shimmering cathedral from many miles away , rising out of that landscape ! Upon entering this stone edifice those same on-lookers must have been struck dumb by the towering Norman arches (rounded ones are the oldest) , and enormous pillars .

These beautiful biblical characters were painted on to the wooden ceiling in Victorian times .

Somehow , Ashley assured me I would be fine to take the next tour of the Octagon Tower (the upper most decorated vaulting in the photo above) and before I could demur we had tickets ! I think there were 250 steps ; up to 3 different levels of the cathedral's roof . When you are standing apprehensively on the floor below the ceiling appears to be an awfully long way up in the distance !

Pinnacle of the Octagon Tower

This was the view from the first level of the roof . We wound our way up a tight , narrow staircase , after admiring some of the "second floor" windows on the inside of the building (pictures further on) . There was plenty of space either side under the arches which , way in the past , was fully used during services and I was horrified to learn from the guide that monks would continually cross the void during their prayers along planks of oak! These would have been permanently placed - also one of the first things to be smashed up during the Reformation .

I kept well to the back of the railed walk way whilst we were outside on this level . My knees did feel shaky , and my mouth was very dry ! Soon we went inside again and toiled up the ever ascending stone steps to the Angel vaulting , where the guide opened up all the panels . It made me feel peculiar when Ashley was leaning out to photograph the windows above , and the floor below . We all admired the huge , blackened oak beams which have held up the Octagon tower for more than 450 years .

The Angels were painted in the Victorian period , on huge opening panels

The very centre of the vaulting

Second outer level - view across Ely
I didn't feel nearly as affected by the (dizzying) height here , as the tower top is enclosed in a high wall . By now I was getting used to the "ants" on the ground below ! Ashley pointed out how decorative the pinnacles were - considering only a handful of people could ever have been close enough to marvel at their intricacy.

The amazingly tiny , narrow door we came through on to the leaded roof ! Opposite was the West Tower ;a tour for another day maybe ? 300+ steps up that one I believe ...

The very top of the Octagon Tower

Although we descended down those same shoulder grazing , winding steps it didn't feel as claustrophobic going down in to the dimming light for some reason . Whilst I was truly glad I hadn't wimped out on the experience - as I would have missed the spectacular sights - I was relieved to feel the floor again .
We went to the stained glass museum (set along one of the upper aisles on one side) and marvelled at the beautiful colours ; all achieved by adding different chemicals to the glass mix. The oldest on show date back , unbelievably , to 1260 . By the time we had followed the date progression of the exhibits we finished back at these oldest pieces , and we both agreed that not only were the colours equally as vibrant as later panels , but their form looked positively modernistic ; with wide , bold leading and largely geometrically cut shapes - presumably because at the time only simple shapes could be trimmed out of the glass . Unfortunately no photography was allowed in here , or I would show you the 2 windows Ashley and I felt stood out like shining , inspiring beacons of enlightenment ! Needless to say each was an androgenous angel designed by Edward Burne-Jones , of (my) beloved Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood . The colours were simply stunning ; ditto the drape of their clothing - and I would go again just to sigh in front of them ! (I hope that everyone will ignore that horrid PRB travesty on BBC at the moment .... it has absolutely nothing to do with Art !!!)

I hope that you enjoy the photos ; I had such a wonderful time looking through them all . It's time for me to close now though , so ..

T.T.F.N Ruth XX

Quiet Reflection

2009-08-12T02:21:00.000-07:00

We visited Little Moreton Hall on the Friday and by Sunday I was back in another National Trust property ! This time it was Anglesey Abbey , which is situated in the next village on from where my parents live in Cambridgeshire .

OK , it wasn't the best sunniest weather , and this isn't the finest example of a former Abbey converted to a home - although the interior is interesting in that it has survived as though just left for a few moments by the late owner Lord Fairhaven , and every wall seems to be liberally hung with art works including some by Claude Lorraine and Edward Landseer . What this place does have is a certain contemplative beauty around every corner ; it's slightly indefinable .... like a shy appreciation of nature at its best , it feels like somebody's garden - all be it a spectacularly huge one .

The three of us happily drifted around exploring the Winter Walk with its pretty paper-curling barked trees , the long avenues ( sadly littered with dead Horse-Chestnut leaves as if emulating Autumn ) Dahlia Garden , and restored Lode Flour Mill on the river . Sometimes opening your eyes is all you need for soothing, quiet reflection.

Were the trees watching us too ?

Here's to the calm persuasion of Mother Nature , aided by her gardeners . Enjoy !

T.T.F.N Ruth XX

Magnificent Moreton Hall

2009-08-05T03:25:00.001-07:00

Hi All - I've not been long back from my short break ( 2 weeks to the next one in Bath ; Yipee !) but I thought I'd post up these pictures of fascinating Little Moreton Hall , which I visited the day before going away .

This beautiful National Trust building is not many miles from where I live and it was high time we re-visited . The de Moreton family , who have been traced back as land owners on this site as far as 1216 , were responsible for this slightly haphazard architecture gracing the landscape . The oldest part of the building is a Great Hall built in the 14 hundreds , which was added to and expanded as fashions came and went , and the family fortunes reached their peak in Elizabethan times . Having recently visited Hardwick Hall , and finished a brilliant biography of Bess of Hardwick I was longing to stand in the sort of building which would have been absolutely familiar to any of her contemporaries . The Moretons would have been a wealthy and high standing provincial family rather than perhaps aristocrats - but that only makes the Hall all the more rare for having survived so intact to this day .

(Inner courtyard)

Not everybody knows that the Elizabethans would be surprised to see "Tudor" buildings painted in the "typical" black and white - in fact oak framework was left to fade to that much nicer silver grey , natural colour , and the in-filling wattle and daub was never white ; but stained a light ochre shade . Inside the Hall is a wonderful ground floor room which had been panelled over in Georgian times concealing intricate wall and beam paintings , with a top frieze depicting a moral tale (Suzanne and her Elders ) I just find it staggering that such amazing pieces of "by hand" craft are co-existing with us in our whizzy , high speed world - how lucky we are to take a peep down the telescope of time !

A Long Gallery was added in 1570 - 1580 ; probably as an after thought as they were becoming quite the fashionable place to take an evening stroll rather than the "leads" on the roof .

The roof was tiled with Millstone Grit slabs which shortly began to sink the building and slide off ! Quite a few generations of Moretons continued to wrestle with the sagging structure , until the National Trust finally bought the property and made millions of pounds worth of renovations . Apparently visitors interested in the Long Gallery used to shuffle their way around the extreme edge of the room for fear it might cave in . Now you can walk around safely at will ; the floors slope in unexpected places and many lintels and fireplaces appear to be lurching side ways . One of the guest bedrooms had a horrific camber to it ; sloping away down toward the window , and was in full use in that state for hundreds of years ! I think you would need to build the bed legs up on one side otherwise you'd have recurring nightmares of being on a sinking ship ! Definitely not for the faint hearted house guest !

(Knot Garden re-created in the 1980s)

During the English Civil War the Moreton family began to lose their fortune ; not helped by being Royalists and having to billet 80 of Cromwell's soldiers for months at their own expense . Maybe some buildings have their own angel watching over them though ; preserving them for us all to enjoy ; it was incredible that the hall was not torched and razed to the ground when the soldiers left .

We took a tour with a really excellent guide during which I gleaned these interesting snippets ;

*The straw/grass which was deeply strewn over the floors in the 15th and 16th century was referred to as "thresh" - a plank was needed at the door to hold it all in , which gave rise to the expression stepping over "the threshold".

* Tudor dining halls were laid out with 3 very long tables in a "U" shape where the whole household ate , taking positions at the tables in ranked seniority right down to pot boys and skivvies . An original trestle table can be seen at Little Moreton Hall , constructed from 3 long oak boards joined side by side . This is where we get the expression to "tread the boards" - from when the "boards" were grouped together along one wall to make a stage for travelling performers . Also the words "cupboard" and "sideboard". After meals were finished the boards were turned over to the clean side so that any number of games could be played : "boardgames". I wonder if we refer to working for "bed and board" as it originally implied bed and then meals with the household at the "boards" ??

Well , I hope you enjoyed a glimpse of the past - there'll be more to come soon I promise .

T.T.F.N ,
Ruth xx

Getting To Know You Too !

2009-07-22T02:39:00.000-07:00

I will take up Sandi's blog invitation to post something about myself as yet unknown - no , I don't dress up as a Victorian girl and talk to rabbits ! LOL !

I have a fear of heights . That is to say I have an actual fear of heights ; of being vertiginously imperilled .... of being dashed against the ground , of hurtling uncontrolled to my doom . Standing a few rungs up a ladder (unlike some people) doesn't give me vertigo - which , incidentally , in latin means "whirling round" and describes the symptomatic effect a terror of heights can produce. I have an irrational notion that IF I were to walk along cliff edges /roof tops etc I would be compelled to lean over and jump right off by some irresistible force lurking there *shudders*

This photo was taken at The Roaches ; a nearby undeniably beautiful range of Staffordshire "peaks". I don't just see two climbers - but rather two deeply crazy people ! I seem to totally lack the "adrenalin junkie" gene . My family all know this well ; one of my mantras is "I don't do gradients ! (or mud) "

Theme parks are not the best place if you share my fear . Oh how I remember that time I went on Nemesis (at Alton Towers) with my sister . "wheeeeee , it'll be fun !" she said and persuaded me against my much better fund of self knowledge . When the ground first began to drop away ,and then the ride gathered pace , swooping us over a PRECIPICE I shut my eyes tight . I could hear her chuckling merrily somewhere , although I don't actually remember the point at which my mouth came open ...... and I screamed for the entire ride . It wasn't a happy scream . I lost my voice for 3 days afterwards . I was also once persuaded on to a "harmless" looking ride by my oldest son which tipped and tilted end over end (why do I try to compete with all those gung-ho mums ??) Suffice it to say I gripped my child and the seat back with white knuckles and kept my head firmly down , and I actually jerked awake that night with palpitations and a good impression of post traumatic stress !

I was not actually present when this pic' was taken of Brett at Ramshaw Rocks (they just don't bother with me anymore) There's a fairly scary drop this side .... but on the other is a nearby 200ft one . I feel sick ....

Terra Firma is the best place for me . I appreciate wonderful scenery , but that doesn't mean it doesn't occasionally scare me senseless ! Well it's not natural to be up high - is it ?

T.T.F.N ,
Ruth XX

Distractions

2009-07-16T01:41:00.001-07:00

In fact it's the 2nd smallest room in the house which has been distracting me somewhat from my sewing lately ! At long last the whole en-suite has been gutted and re-fitted for a completely new and fresh look .... only 3 weeks to wait before we go through the whole procedure again with our horrid worn out bathroom . Woohoo !

It may be an extremely small space but the re-planning still required much scurrying from shop to shop , brochure comparisons and , naturally, a pretty meaningful shake of the money tree at the bottom of the garden (!) No wonder my head was finding it difficult to conjure up bears when my mind's eye wanted to imagine tiles , sanitary ware and most importantly STORAGE solutions , which would give me the perfect little ablutionary bolt hole . After all , I have to share the other one with the 3 young men of the house :0(

Plus ;I've finally found a home for my gorgeous Art Noveau plaques ; they've been squirreled away for forever , and I have a fantastic huge one ready for my bathroom - I could never have too much Art Nouveau if you know where I'm coming from ;0) These 2 draw the eye nicely up the wall creating a feeling of height and space . I pounced on the cute little mirrored jewellery cabinet, which has flower knobs and a tiny drawer , and decided to stick it right there - totally out of context - housing nothing but my contact lens paraphernalia !

I finally have the mirrored wall cabinets (one above the sink , one in the corner) which I always wanted / needed - I can actually see , and choose from , all those lovely bottles of "nice stuff" for scrubbing , cleansing and improving , all neat on their shelves .

The shower now has a vertically sliding head ; so I won't feel I'm about to drown like I did under the old fixed position one ! Inwardly concertina doors add to space saving ... but all these small details do take time to get right don't they ? I think I better stop admiring my excellent choices and GET ON WITH MY SEWING !!!

Mirrored sparkley Hugs ,
Ruth X

An Award Honour

2009-07-07T01:50:00.000-07:00

I am very honoured , and sincerely flattered , to receive a really special blog award passed on from Tina ; The Bella Sinclair Award . I think Tina herself , was very deserving of it as her blog has the most wonderful and inventive pieces of altered art and her bears to enjoy , and she is one of the most caring , sharing ladies I know :0)

The originator of the award , Ces (Ces and Her Dishes) states that :- " I designed this award to celebrate art in the blogs and to honour the value of friendship , sisterhood , sharing and caring . It is to be awarded to the gifted , accomplished , eloquent and talented blogger whose friendship and influence inspire us to do our best . It is symbolised by the Quercus Lobata , or Valley Oak , a handsome and graceful tree ." A visit to Ces' blog will reveal the moving story behind her creation of the award .

There are no formal rules with this , and I have had a very long think about how I might carefully pass on the commendation . Whilst all my blogging friends are highly worthy I have decided to highlight 3 ladies who totally inspire me on to do my best , and whose friendship and influence I truly value :-

Sandi Smith (Bearly Sane Teddies) - for her innovative art , her invaluable contributions toward promoting bear artistry, and her tireless work behind the scenes of TBACA and beyond . Sandi is a great friend and the best "Mother Hen" ever ; always there , and always sharing .

Paula Carter (All Bear) - Paula's blog is impeccably maintained , and a great place to view the highest bear art , whilst behind the scenes she works so diligently to unite bear artists - The Guild of Master Bear Crafters being one example - fantastic B.F to us all !

Donna Griffin ( Donna and the Bears) - amazing artistry to sigh over , and the kindest , sweetest lady who I am honoured to call a friend ; Donna also promotes the work of bear artists with altruistic generosity . "Good Luck" with the up-coming presentation to collectors !

I have known all these dear ladies since we all joined (the late) Bear Artists Online , and it is a pleasure to still belong to the wider teddy Sisterhood with them !

Now then , so you don't think I'm only ever serious and not much fun , here's a piece of "art" I created earlier (look it's even in a gallery , wink , wink ....)

Which reminds me ; I'm longing to see the current issue of Teddy Bear Review as there is an article about British Bear artists in it , and my little "Miss Majesty" has put in an appearance !
Happy Days !

T.T.F.N Ruth xx

Summer Treats and Lovely Things...

2009-07-01T01:15:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share some of the lovely , pretty treats I've acquired so far , and I've also got some photos of my challenge piece for the Teddy Bear Artist Event last month .

Lovely , lovely Tina (of TinyBear) gave me the sweetest little package when we met up on the Saturday before the TBAE - as you can see above ; romantic little looped hearts and pretty tags/markers which I'll be keeping all for myself ;0) I was totally enchanted by the beautiful picture she attached as the gift tag ( I think I will frame it) and also the embellished sea urchin dangling from it - even the outer wrapping braid will go in my squirrel-stash! Ooooooooh I love pretties ! So "Thank You" once again Tina .... I hope everyone will visit your pages and treat themselves !

"What's in these lovely boxes ?" wondered Tiddy

Whilst we were walking round Stratford I came upon The Montpellier art gallery , where we were all welcomed in out of the rain with the offer of wine and canapes ( although it seemed a bit over indulgent to accept !) I was so glad we went in because Ashley and I treated ourselves to the most darling little bronze sculptures of hares and one of an otter in the weeds . We have 2 similar little bronzes on our mantelpiece , but these are really small at 2.5" for the largest .

On a slightly different note :- I was absolutely delighted to hear recently that the Wedgwood Museum had won "The Museum of the Year" award for 2009 . As you may know , my husband worked at Wedgwood for 18 years , some of this time was spent doing hands-on modelling for them . Having gained a degree in ceramics there was only one sensible place in the country for him to move to and so we made The Potteries area ; which encompassed Wedgwood , Royal Doulton , Spode , Minton , Masons , and a host of small "pot bank" factories , our home .

Like so much other great , British manufacturing , the industry has been beleaguered and could really do with a boost right now . Ashley has retained very close links with the museum staff throughout his career and its changes , and so he was incredibly pleased for them all when the award was announced . A visit is definitely on my summer agenda - there are priceless pieces exhibited , which are National Treasures for sure !

Anyway , I decided to celebrate The Potteries part of the world in my Exhibitor Challenge piece for the TBAE ( theme Around the World" ) Although it didn't receive a placing I was still really pleased with how it turned out . The 3" bear is created in a Wedgwood blue , and the medal is intended to recall blue Jasper cameos - of course I just had to make a bear's head ! I felt quite proud to highlight 250 years of ceramics heritage .... please let there be 250 more !

You can check out the museum details here : www.wedgwoodmuseum.org.uk/home

Well , it's the last few days of Wimbledon so Ta Ta For Now ,
Ruth XX

21 Years Ago Today ....

2009-06-25T01:50:00.000-07:00

What's on my mind today then ? Well , 21 years ago at midday I was married to the man I first clapped eyes on at the age of 12 ! We started "going out" together when I was 15 , and ten years later there we were on a glorious , hot and sunny day in Cambridge , with family and friends all fligged up in our finest !

I remember that after the ceremony we were driving slowly through the city on the way to the reception ; cars creeping along due to the university students Rag Week charity bed-push right in amongst the traffic . They were all dressed as doctors and nurses , and shaking collection tins . The onlooking pedestrians , and car drivers , thought it highly amusing when one of the "wags" pushing the bed knocked on the window of our decorated wedding car ( a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow ) - they got their donation though , and I'm sure it was a good omen !

I've been wallowing in sentiment ; looking through all our precious photos of the day . No apologies then for subjecting you to them as well !! Look , I even carried a fan .... I was sooooo blissfully happy that day !

I totally fell in love with my dress - scattered with iridescent pink sequins and pink and pearl beads ( well , everyone knows by now I'm a hopeless "girly" LOL ) I remember having that 22" waist too ..... sigh ......

Happy Anniversary Ashley !
Happy Day to Everyone ! Go and search out some photos that bring you back wonderful memories too !

T.T.F.N Ruth X

Bee Poem

2009-06-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

The Violet and the Bee
by John Bannister Tabb

"And pray, who are you?"
Said the Violet blue
To the Bee, with surprise,
At his wonderful size,
In her eyeglass of dew.
"I, madam," quoth he,
"Am a publican Bee,
Collecting the tax
Of honey and wax.
Have you nothing for me?"

Such a sweet little summery poem . I love watching the "busy bees" in the garden and it always gives me huge satisfaction to rescue them out of my conservatory when they fly in by accident . I plan to install some solitary bee homes , as I think we all need to do as much as we can to help them over their increasing environmental hurdles - I was utterly dismayed when I watched a programme recently about the global threat of bee hive collapse . Without these little creatures getting to work on pollinating crops the whole world could face food shortages !

So be kind to a bee .... and appreciate him in all his tiny , fuzzy glory !

T.T.F.N

Ruth x

99th Post !

2009-06-11T04:18:00.000-07:00

Now , I know bloggers usually celebrate the 100th post , but I haven't had too much time to think about organising anything ; what with prototypes , commissions and fairs all vying for my attention . Hopefully I'll catch up with myself by about the 102nd ish post (!) so in the meantime here is a special one-off , blog-only price offer :-

The little 3" bear here is "Ella" , a shy looking little sweety made from smokey Long Pile Upholstery Velvet in a peachy/pinky shade , with Ultrasuede paw pads and onyx bead eyes . She has a wobble-jointed head , thread-jointed limbs and wears a lacey collar . It was Ella who appeared in last month's Teddy Bear Times; in the feature about the TBAE in Stratford . Her label was marked at £63.00 , but her price in this offer is £50.00 in addition to which I will only charge half the normal postage ( so - UK Special Delivery : £3.00 , International Signed For including insurance : £4.50 )

If anybody would like to adopt her please email me at- ruthbowman@tiscali.co.uk
I will leave this offer open until Sunday 14th June , 10pm UK time .

T.T.F.N Ruth x

A Few Bears for Stratford

2009-06-04T05:37:00.000-07:00

Even though the Miniatures have now arrived at The Black and White Ball I just wanted to post a little preview of some of the bears who'll be visiting The Teddy Bear Artist Event in Stratford this Sunday :-

"Patience" ; Vintage Long Pile , 3"

"Clementine" ; Vintage Long Pile , 3"

"Jin" ; Long Cashmere , 3"

"Leonie" ; Long Pile Upholstery Velvet , 3"

"Martha" ; Short Cashmere , 3"

"Cookie" ; Vintage Long Pile , 2.5"

"Benji" and "Suzi" ; Long Pile Upholstery Velvets , 1.2"

I've booked tickets today for "The Shakespeare Town Houses" - the entry remains valid for a whole year , so we don't need to rush round all 3 on the Saturday . Also included is entry to the "Shakespeare Found" Exhibition .... wheeeeee , I'm really excited as it's all about the recently verified painting by Cobbe , of a young handsome version of The Bard , previously unknown to historians.The original is on show .
I can't wait !

See you all after the weekend ,
Ruth xx

Visit the Black and White Ball

2009-06-01T01:52:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to visit Teddy Bears and Critters Australasia's Black and White Ball this week , which kicks off today with the fantastic new Australasian Creative Design Awards - you can make a vote for your favourite piece in the competition from amongst some really wonderful entries , all themed in black and white and photographed as per the rules on a red background; which is quite a challenge !
For the rest of the week there is a full "dance card" for collectors and visitors to enjoy as follows:-

1st June - Introduction and unveiling of TACDA entrants .

2nd June - Dressed bears arrive.

3rd June - Vintage fur bears arrive.

4th June - Nominees are officially announced , and Miniatures arrive .

5th June - All the critters arrive .

6th June - Remaining bears arrive.

7th June - Finale , and award presentation .

This is a completely new kind of online show , lasting the entire week . It is also a "masked" ball , which means that artist names will only be revealed for each available piece on adoption . I wonder if any of you will be able to tell which bears are mine on the Miniatures Day on Thursday ?? I do so hope you'll pop by the show and have fun guessing , and just generally enjoying the gorgeous bears , critters , and Award entrants taking part . There are almost certain to be one or two who ask you "May I have this dance Modom ....." :0)

TaTa For Now , Ruth x