One of my favorite songs as a child was Teddy Bears' Picnic. What could be more natural than making memory teddy bears that often make people cry for happy?

The first one was for my year old grandson, based on memories of a much loved doll. It was such a hit that I reworked the design and made some more. Thus Bellybutton Bears was born, fastened with buttons and a bellybutton added to each tummy. A friend ordered bears from remnants of her son's shirts. The concept of memory teddy bears grew out of that. Why not bring those treasured garments out of the closet and be able to see and share them daily?

One summer I began the story of how the bears got their bellybutton. In a moment of bravado, I listed it on the website as 'coming soon'. The next thing I knew, a lady had ordered a bear AND a book! Panic set in because I had not finished the story. Within two weeks, the Bellybutton Legend was complete. These are printed and assembled in my home, with a wood cover.

Each bear develops its personality as it is made, and it is like parting with a friend when I pack it and send it on its way. Then the wait until I hear it is safely in it's home and all is well. Some of the stories as to why a bear was wanted would make you cry. When folks tell me how the bears have helped their healing process, or evoked sweet memories, I am reminded why I make them! Although many are for people who have lost loved ones, others are for retirements, graduations, births, beloved pets. When there is no special garment, I find something suitable and help start a new memory.

Visit the home of the bellybutton bears at www.bellybuttonbears.com.