Ollie socks
Recently I received the lovliest email, all the way from Colorado. 'Mrs Cat' (who's name sounds like a story book character!) reads children stories at a local library in Denver. Apparantly Mrs Cat is very fond of the Ollie books and has collected a set of Ollie books(US) to give her first grandchild. A dear friend of hers has organised a toy maker to make a gorgeous sock Ollie to give to her for her grandchild!
Almost two years ago I worked hard to create a toy prototype of Ollie (toy below), and working with Scholastic we created a toy based on my handmade toys, after many variations and tweaks I felt we had the perfect toy. . .but since then due to the economic climate and other reasons that are beyond me, the Ollie toy prototype sits quietly by itself unproduced. . .it makes it even more special when I receive a note about a handmade Ollie toy for Mrs Cat's grandchild bringing Ollie to life!
- Tags: characters, craft
Comments (2)
Hello Anna Walker. I am the "Mrs. Cat" in Littleton, Colorado. I just received my beautiful "Ollie" sock doll today after the close of the Baby Story Time from a very loyal fan and her darling son. I teared up after hearing how she had had this made for my first grandchild (a little girl) due in late August. I had shared two of your books at one of my baby story times earlier this year. I casually mentioned that if anyone every saw and "Ollie" doll to let me know so I could purchase it for my grandbaby. Little did I know she would do this for me. I was touched in two ways: first because she thought so highly of me; and second she thanked me "for encouraging so many kids to become readers. We have enjoyed all the books that you have shared with us and know you will make a wonderful grandmother."
I am a former teacher (Elementary Math) and now I'm finding a second career as a patron services specialist for the Arapahoe Library District. I present a family story time every Wednesday evening and a baby story time once/month at the Southglenn branch. Because of my teaching background, I know how important it is to get our children interested in and "hooked" on reading. I love to prepare and present my story times and this is just one of the many "thank you's" I've heard over the past few years.
I love, love , love your books! My new grandbaby has already started her collection with I Love Mom and I Love Dad. She will get more "Ollie" books soon along with her new Ollie doll. I am looking for the "abc's and the 123's". Please continue your "Ollie and Fred" books. They are the best! Simple, sweet, and just right for my baby story time!
Sincerely, Debbie Catbagan "Mrs. Cat"
Thank you Mrs Cat! Your community is very fortunate to have people like you sharing your passion for books and reading. Wishing you every joy and happiness with your dear grandbaby. x annn