Everyone loves a Teddy!

...That's Teddy as in Teddy Bear, not nighttime wear, for those of you adults that have wandering minds!

I had no clue what I would ramble about today, but thanks again to Brownie Locks and the Three Bears, I found out that today is National American Teddy Bear Day! Everyone loves a teddy bear. They are so soft and cuddly and remind you of being a little kid. Or a big kid that still has teddy bears (me)...

Toy bears are a longtime favorite of children around the world. They were not called Teddy Bears until the reign of President Theodore Roosevelt (we all know this story, right?). He was on a hunting trip to Mississippi with several of his friends and other hunters. His friends had treed and American Black Bear and wanted to shoot it. Roosevelt deemed such an act as un-sportsmanlike and refused to kill the bear. His actions resulted in a political cartoon (above right). A Brooklyn store owner saw the cartoon and was inspired to create a new toy. I'd say it was a huge success!

Let's celebrate today with a big hug to Teddy and everyone one who loves a Teddy!

Smiles

World Diabetes Day

Just added... It is also World Diabetes Day. From dLife:

The International Diabetes Federation established World Diabetes Day back in 1991, but this year’s observance has a special significance – it is the first time the event will also be officially observed by the United Nations and its member countries. Today in Manhattan, thousands will form a human blue circle in front of the United Nations, walk down 1st Avenue, and then join a diabetes education rally featuring American Idol’s Elliott Yamin and other performers. This evening, the Empire State Building will be one of 120 landmarks around the globe that will light up in blue to mark the day. dLife Medical Advisory Board member and noted endocrinologist Dr. Francine Kaufman chairs the IDF’s section on childhood and adolescent diabetes, which is the theme of this year’s World Diabetes Day campaign.

Why November 14th? It’s the birth date of Frederick Banting, one of the discoverers of insulin.