Bear Tracks

Welcome to Bear Day: my own personal holiday. It’s the day I invented as a break from the burden of shopping, gift wrapping, cookie baking, etc. that I tend to impose on myself at this time of year. Do you have a teddy bear at your house that’s old enough to vote? Here are a few simple steps you can take to give him a new outlook on life. First, look for a straight seam you can carefully open to access his stuffing. Remove the stuffing and discard. Gently wash the empty fur with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse and repeat if necessary. Blot on a towel (don’t wring!) and air dry. Repair any holes and re-stuff with fresh fiberfill (I took mine to Build-a-Bear, and he looks great) and re-sew the original seam. Now dress your bear in a new waistcoat, scarf or hat and let him sit where everyone can admire his makeover.