"Hi" to Hahndorf, "Bye" to Some Critters

Amidst the beautiful Adelaide autumn weather, there was excitement in the teddy bear and doll community, as we headed for the Adelaide Hills Doll and Bear Show held at Hahndorf each year in April.

My friend Kay Schulz of Kay's Kids and I were to share a trading table again, and the anticipation of spending the weekend together made the early start worthwhile. We were also looking forward to catching up with beary friends, some of whom come from as far away as Sydney (1430 kms).

Kay and Kay - what a team!

On arrival, there was the usual rush and bustle of setting up, but thanks to Kay, who had done most of the work on Friday afternoon, all I had to do was place my critters on our table and make them comfortable.

Within five minutes of the doors opening to the public, Kelvin had charmed his way into the heart of a lovely lady, and he waved goodbye and headed off to his new home.

Kelvin (bottom right) says goodbye to Kaylee and Joy

Then dear Steve was descending from his bicycle and departing with his new mother.

See you later, Nana Kayzy!

Kay was also enjoying success, with her lovely bears and elegant pincushions being appreciated and adopted by discerning collectors. 

Some of Kay's lovely creations

After first rush, I grabbed the opportunity to have a quick look around the hall, and to take some pictures of friends along the way. To see more of their work or contact them, click on their name:

Valma Bolton of Teddy's Bits

Valma Bolton of Teddy Bits

On the right is Annette Henderson of Dreamweaver Bears

Annette Henderson of Dreamweaver Bears













Gabi of Anibeck Creations

Gabi with her exquisite Anibeck Creations

Gabi made this darling squirrel

Val Potter - Bear With Me Bears

Val Potter of Bear With Me Bears

Shirley is smitten with Wilbur (Kays Kids)

Meanwhile, back at our table, one of my girls was making the most of the day. Shirley, introduced to Wilbur, was instantly smitten, and refused to leave his side for the rest of the weekend. (I can see I'm going to keep an eye on those two!)

On the other end of the table Sandi stood dreamily alongside Scruff, her new best friend.

Sandi and Scruff

Later in the day, an earlier visitor returned to make an important decision - "Should I adopt San-Shu or Mei-Lei?"  After some deliberation the decision was made - it was Mei-Lei. Although San-Shu and I were sad to see her go, we knew that Mei-Lei was going to a loving home so we were glad, too.

Mei-Lei (on the right) farewells San-Shu

Before the show, I assisted with judging the competition bears for the first time - a rather daunting task, but very interesting. Pictured are the major prizewinners.

All in all, the Adelaide Doll and Bear Show was great fun, and Kay and I are already planning our participation in next year's event.