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Although I was born in England, I haven't actually lived there for a long time! I have been something of a gypsy, after leaving University - several years in Western Australia, working as a geologist, and then back to Europe. I've lived in Holland, Belgium and France, and currently live in Germany, and a small place called Wald-Michelbach. We are in the Odenwald, a beautiful, hilly area between Heidelberg and Frankfurt. With so much open space, and lots of forested ares, the wildlife is interesting.........lots of deer, wild boar and even European Lynx, although these are very rarely seen - not sure I'd want to meet one when out walking the dog!

Our house is inhabited by me, husband Jeremy, our huge Leonberger dog, Nounours, and cat Fuchsia............and of course, lots of BEARS!

Germany is where I caught the "bear bug" - and it's a good place to learn the craft! Bears , in the land of Steiff and Schulte are BIG - no less than four bear magazines, numerous shows and easily available bear supplies - we are only a half-hour drive from one of the country's biggest suppliers (lucky me!).
I started making bears in 2001, and they took over my life..........yes, it can be hard work at times, but the rewards are immense. Bears bring SMILES and there is nothing quite like seeing one of your "babies" being carried off triumphantly by it's new, happy, owner. And I am truly grateful for all the new friends the bear world has bought me.

I think I'm one of the world's SLOWEST bear makers, so I don't get to do many shows - usually only two per year (Teddybaer Total, in Rheda, and Hugglets, in London).

I don't actually have a workroom (much to my regret) - I work at the dining table until my back starts to complain (!) and then migrate to the lounge with my sewing - just as well I do it all by hand! I'm always interested in trying out new techniques and ideas..........right now, I'm obsessed with polar bears!
I hope you enjoyed your flying visit to our neck of the woods!

big beary hugs

Maria

URL : www.puca-bears.de