james - the bear who travelled through time (a christmas story)

As I learn more about the wonderful human beside me, I’ve discovered he never had a teddy bear to call his own and whisper dreams to. 

After some investigation, I found his teddy bear waiting in a pocket of time. 

So, this past Christmas, James the teddy bear was pulled forward to finally be united with his companion. Here is the letter that was delivered to Trevor, on Christmas morning. 

“In the spirit of play, as we grow young together, I have traveled through time to unite you with a gift you were meant to have as a little boy. He’s been waiting for you.  

But don’t worry, time isn’t linear - he hasn’t been waiting long. 

A lovely German woman named, Margarete, appeared before me. She was of sweet disposition, a very talented seamstress. Born in 1847, she spoke of many impediments placed upon her as an entrepreneur from this era. Particularly, limitations from polio.

One day in her quaint shop, Margarete fashioned small felt elephants (Elefäntles) intended to be used as pincushions. Ultimately, she discovered children loved these elephants and a decade later she registered her commercial toy company under her name. Margarete Steiff. 

Another decade passed and unbeknownst to her, Harrod’s was searching for beautiful toys to sell in their luxurious shop. They fancied her toys!

Her eyes danced with magic as she unfolded her story. This was her gift to the world, to bring delight of the highest quality. She waxed-lyrical on how ‘you don’t know what business you’re in until you start.’ A giggle tumbled out and I could see she was bemused. ‘I have a feeling you would adore my husband.’ 

The reason for my travels then surfaced. I explained to Margarete that this point in time called me back to pick up a gift that was waiting for a young boy with the initials, T.B. Needing more information, I gave Margarete your full name. Trevor Blake, of Henblas. I hope you don’t mind, I also shared your story. Your arrival, your upbringing, your family, your mother, your love - Lyn, your adventures, your bravery. She was deeply moved. 

Our conversation danced on until Margarete abruptly halted. ‘Wait, did you say T.B?! Scheisse! Auf keinen fall!’ Seeing my bewilderment, she explained. 

It was 1902 and her nephew, Richard recently developed a new toy called the Steiff 55PB. This very day, Steiff 55PB had been renamed with the initials T.B. We felt a wave of simultaneous realization. This was the gift waiting for you, a magical little boy who must never grow up. Without hesitation, Margarete artfully packaged up T.B, not available to any child as of yet, to travel back with me. 

After a slice of stollen (or two), some laughs, and listening to her vision for the future of toys - I bid Margarete, ‘Auf Widersehen.’

Only after I returned did I realize the initials T.B. are famous across the world as, Teddy Bear. 

Now, Trevor Blake, I would like to introduce you to your teddy bear, James. He sports a genuine mohair coat, milled in the same century-old factory. James has hand-stitched features and wears wool-felt paw pads. He also proudly wears the famous, "Button in Ear", trademark, a symbol of the highest quality.

He is so happy to finally be here with you. 

Bear-y Christmas!”