I have collected panda bears since childhood. My collection now has over 700 pieces, and includes stuffed bears, figurines, scarves, magnets, pencils, jewelry, candles, paintings, mugs, and many more items. Every room of my house includes at least one Panda Bear! My bears have traveled all over the world with me, being lovingly packed and unpacked many times. Each piece is special to me, having been given to me by friends, family, and co-workers over the years. My love affair with the Panda began when Ling-Ling was given to the Washington, DC zoo. Ling-Ling captured my imagination, and made me aware of the plight of the Panda Bear. Over the years, I followed her many attempts to produce cubs, all of which failed. When she died, I cried as I felt like I had lost a dear friend.
I never got to actually see Ling-Ling, but I was fortunate enough to be able to visit the Panda Bear exhibit at the London Zoo several times when I lived in England for several years. My first visit will always live in my memory, as I sat for hours and watched those beautiful bears play, eat, and sleep. It was a dream come true for me.