Copyright 1996-2010 - All Rights Reserved


August 2010
 

 ***  Share your News or Photos by clicking here  ***

 

 

Tuesday,  August 24

 

 ...    New Products
Thanks to Rosaleen, who writes:

Hi Deb,  ... I don't like bothering you with Beanie news since you're not up to power-but I discovered something that you might like to pass along to the other collectors. I was checking some of the lists today and I found that Ty had added some of the pieces to the lists but if you will click on the "view printable list"-he has added many more than he has to the regular list. I hope that you're able to understand what I am trying to say. I know that there are still some collectors who try to keep "track" of the new additions.  Thanks and hurry and get well.   Rosaleen

... Thanks for sharing, Rosaleen.  I haven't actually been able to go through the list yet, but I will.   I do also look VERY forward to the new Charlie Brown, Lucy, etc.  We did mention a while back that they will be "musical" ... sounds quite different and exciting.  We shall see!

 

 

Ty on Twitter                    Ty on Facebook

(Maybe this will help, Rosaleen) ... You can also find it posted at the bottom of this page :)


 

 

*** More News to Follow  ****

 

Ty -  Webkinz  -  Boyds  -  Dolls  ...  and More  (A great variety ... reasonably priced)  Welcome Mat and Information

Online Store

 

 

Saturday,  August 14

 ...    New Products
Thanks to Rosaleen and Vicky for sharing the following:

******************************************

* Vicky writes:

* Vicky further adds:
I wrote to the Ty site yesterday asking them to please update the Beanie Baby catalog with the new Ben 10 series. They added all of them except Jet Ray so I wrote again this morning to let them know.  -Vicky

 

Click here to view on Ty's website

 ...    Christmas in July ....
Wish to enjoy a great sale on Ty products (as well as Boyds, Ganz, etc.)?  Interested in placing a pre-order?  There's quite a bit to post which has been shared with us ... perhaps best if you visit the 'Fabric Friends & Dolls' website (link below) for a Christmas in July sale you won't want to miss.  There are upcoming Halloween products (Beanie Babies and BOOS); and check out the pics of the new Charlie Brown series and Madagascar themed Beanies.

 (Hint ... Watch for Burrows the meerkat, Cocoa the labrador, Corky the terrier, Igloo the polar bear, Hope the 2010 breast cancer bear, Honey and Nutmeg the reindeer, and much more.)

 ...    Teletubby Beanie Babies in the Works
Worldscreen.com - Published July 7, 2010

 

 

---

 ...    Ty Newsflash
Wow!  A retirement Newsflash from Ty.   Reminds us of  'the old days'.  :)  Today Ty has announced the retirement of two Beanie Boos ...  Kiwi and Kooky.  Click here to view the announcement on Ty's site
... Thanks, Rosaleen! 

 ...    A Personal Note from Doodle ...
I wish to personally thank everyone for all the many cards, emails, and the thoughts and prayers since my surgery.  I never imagined I would have to undergo open heart surgery, and must say ... these past several weeks have been the hardest I have ever had to face.   It has been a slow battle of recoup but every day is a bit better and easier than the day before.  I apparently also suffered a minor stroke somewhere along the way, but fortunately only numbness remains as an after affect from that.  I rarely mention personal issues I undertake ... many that don't know me personally could probably care less.  But for all the friends that do, I sincerely appreciate everything - YOU are the ones that kept my spirits up.   I have posted news I considered relevant and newsworthy when able, or a family member assisted on my behalf.    I do know that my priorities have been reconsidered ... God, my life, and my family are most important to me.  Many of the smaller things in life I thought were soooo important .... they're still there, just a bit down the list now  :)  Thanks again for your patience and  understanding!  Have a GREAT day!!!  .... Deb
 

 

Hi Deb, Here is the remaining picture of retail releases. Prickles is still available to order on the web site. Other sold out styles can be ordered/requested for a later time. Our first shipment of U.K. exclusives are now available at Fabric Friends. Dewi Y Ddraig and Dwynwen are still on backorder and the latest word I've been given is that they should be available around the middle of June; of course, arrival dates with Ty are never set in stone and that could be oversight. Here are pictures of the U.K. releases we received. Please notify us if you're interested in anything you see here. Most of the products arrived in excellent condition with mint hang tags, but if something is not 100% mint, I'll let you know before you purchase. Like the U.S. shipments, we (especially) cannot help how products arrive from overseas. Pricing information and product availability can be found on our web site; to skip over other parts of the site and go directly to the Ty page, click here:  http://fabricfriendsdolls.excitewebpages.com/page/1plwt/COLLECTIBLES/TY_INC.html

I would like to state once again - Deb, we appreciate your website for having a pipeline to help us share Ty information, news and product availability at our own store with the readers/collectors of your website. For the readers/collectors, your business is very important to us and we do take pride in helping collectors find what they're looking for and being able to reserve new incoming products for those who request it. That is why we also offer clearanced items, sales and discounts from time to time, and other customer opportunities. We may not always have the lowest prices, but we're honest before a transaction is completed and we're willing to work with you depending on the circumstances. You can't say that about every business or website out there. You're free to ask me for a personal reference of a recurring customer - we will go the extra mile if the situation calls for it and it is cost-effective for both parties. We would not make you pay a price for something that I would not personally pay myself (or haven't paid). Be sure to check back here next month to see something special we have planned.

We're getting very close to June so there will be more new releases on the horizon. I've been informed of some of the new releases that will be coming in the next few months, although at this time I have not been given permission to disclose. I will say that (similar to the first half of 2010) there appears to be something for everyone, but then again, maybe not. By mid-June, we should have an idea of what will be available for the next few months as another catalog is expected.

Regards,
Marc

... Doodle's note:  I have been a Beanie collector for many, many years.  And although I have lightened up considerably on my purchases, I do admit that Fabric Friends has been one of the most reliable and reputable (online) store I have worked with.  If there is anything you are looking for, be sure to check availability with them.  I'm sure you will be pleased.  As Marc says ... they DO go the extra mile!

Thanks for your website. This is a photo of the Dora given away at the Cubs game on
May 01, 2010 to the first 5000 in attendance (7 and under).  It appears to be the 
same Dora beanie as 2009 with an updated Cubs shirt. Note the "10".
The style# is 40327, same as 2009 version.
All the best, Debi.

 

 ...    Sequoia, Tiny, and Yodel Beanie Babies
Marc kindly shares the following:

Hi Deb,

Here's a picture of Sequoia, as well as higher quality of Tiny and Yodel. I will send a picture of Patches, Prickles and Safari Beanie BOO tomorrow. All of these products are sold out now except for Prickles, as we're getting a second order of this hedgehog.

Thanks to everyone who has purchased or is in the process of purchasing from us. This is very reminiscent of the early days for us, where the new products aren't staying on the shelves for very long. As long as people keep ordering, we will do the same, and as long as Ty continues to have good sales and a good profit margin, Beanies can continue for several more years. Feel free to e-mail us with any questions (either one of us), order requests or anything else that may be on your mind, and as long as it's a reasonable request or on topic, I will be in touch. Unfortunately I can't answer what I do not know.

I've received word of more new Beanies and products from other product lines to be announced in the next few months, including some more exclusives, teddy bears, and animals we have not seen for some time. But that's for another story for another day.

Regards,
Marc

 

Hi Deb,

Here are pictures of the May 2010 releases as well as other recent releases.

Just to clarify, there is only one version of the Peace bear. The original picture I sent your web site was a placeholder image. Ty used the original Peace Beanie Baby and digitally added the purple peace sign and ribbon over it. None of the new current editions of Peace have that tie-dye mixture. The new Beanie is in waves of rainbow colors, with the tie-dye mixed in between the rainbows. That's the best way I can describe it.

Also, Scooby-Doo is a Beanie Buddy, not a Ty Classic. It was originally announced as a Classic, but has the Beanie Buddy hang tag. I don't know what Ty intended but I'd go by what it's tagged as - plus it's a licensed character and Ty said all Beanie Buddies after 2008 would strictly be licensed characters. Any other plush matching Beanie Baby styles would be Ty Classics.

So here are pictures. All of these newer products, with the exception of the Beanie BOO-BOOS Key-clips, are (pending) reserved or sold out/out of stock. Slush and Coconut Key-clips are also sold out and backordered, and will be coming in. Prickles, Sequoia, and Patches Beanies, and Safari Beanie BOO (regular size) are also still backordered for sometime in May. However, if something is out of stock or sold out, this does not mean I won't be re-ordering more. We will definitely be re-ordering more Peace bears, and most likely a handful of the other new releases. So if you're interested in any of the new Beanies ($4.99 each, Dora is $5.99), please set up a future order. It's okay to ask for these, we do not mind placing re-orders when there are enough requests for it. Scooby-Doo Beanie Buddy is $10.99, the Beanie BOO Key-clips are $3.25 each or $21.00 for the set of 7. Nuzzle Classic from April is sold out, but if we were to re-order more, they are $9.99.

***Also, for the month of May, we are offering $5.00 shipping on purchases of Ty products, Ganz Webkinz products, or a combination of both. The shipping is $5.00 whether you buy one, two, or twenty-two. However, the order must be paid for and shipped before May 31. June 1, shipping goes back to regular pricing. There are also some other regulations regarding this, but I don't want to take up anymore space, so please read the guidelines on my mom's web site for more information***

http://fabricfriendsdolls.excitewebpages.com/page/1plwr/COLLECTIBLES.html

Thanks for your time. These all appear to be pretty well-designed Beanies. And yes, the Celebration and Peace bears are stuffed with beans and not flimsy (most weren't anyway). We got one Peace bear that was practically busting at the seams because it was overloaded with beans.

Regards,
Marc

Nuzzle Classic	Beanie Babies Peace - Celebration
Scooby-Doo Buddy - Beanie Baby Dora	Beanie Babies Tiny - Yodel - and BOO BOO'S

Doodle's note ... Thanks for sharing, Rosaleen.  I do have the "Cookie" 'Beanie' and 'Buddy' BOO's .  That's definitely an interesting note on the birthdays.  The Cookie Beanie Boo I have does NOT have a bithdate listed in the hang tag.

Cookie Beanie 'Buddy' ...
'The Beanie Boo Buddies Collection' (with Ty Inc. / Ty Canada / Ty U.K. / Ty Japan / Ty Asia / Ty Australia ... and www.ty.com  (left side inside hang tag)
"Cookie  i need a hug!" (right side inside hang tag)

Cookie Beanie 'Baby' ...
'The Beanie Boo's Collection' (with Ty Inc. / Ty Canada / Ty U.K. / Ty Japan / Ty Asia / Ty Australia ... and www.ty.com  (left side inside hang tag)
"Cookie  i need a hug!" (right side inside hang tag)
 

Added note:  Are you still confused? .... One of our readers adds:

A little information .... Dora - Mermaid retired April 29.

This is the expected May announcement - -

Beanie Babies:
Celebration - bear
Dewi Y Ddraig - dragon (Welsh exclusive; the Beanie Baby is being released one year after the key-clip and Classic were introduced; no clue why it took a year)
Dora Happy Birthday
Dwynwen - dragon (Welsh exclusive)
Peace - bear

Dewi Y Ddraig

Dwynwen

Beanie BOO Buddies:
Bamboo - panda bear (maybe)

Ty Classics:
Scooby-Doo - great dane (I hear it's already shipping before announcement so we should have it any day now)

This leaves Lemonade and Blueberry for June and then all catalog releases will have been officially announced. The trade show styles should be seeing a July release, and there will be a Beanie BOO pig coming sometime potentially over the summer. Any other potential future styles, I do not know about.

Pre-sales at Fabric Friends on May retail releases already taking place. If anybody is interested in the two dragons, they may put in a request as we're trying to find the appropriate resources out of the country to sell them at secondary costs. Bulk purchases of Ty products at our discretion - final price can be discussed after inclusion of shipping is calculated into subtotal.

Thanks,
Marc

 

 

 ...    Thank you!
After some unexpected major surgery, I am slowly recuperating and should be "like new" soon.  It's been a battle I hope to never face again.  Thanks to everyone for their kind notes and prayers.


 

Ty Inc, USA the manufacturer of the fastest selling collection of soft toys in the world forays in to Rs 1500 crore Indian Toy market through its Indian partner Ty Toy (India) Pvt. Ltd. Ty is the manufacturer of the fastest selling collection of soft toys in the world. Ty is the world leader in the sales of plush toys. The six categories range which is being launched nationally at Hyderabad includes Beanie Babies, Beanie Babies 2.0, Pluffies, Punkies, Ty Classic, and Ty Girlz. The red Ty Heart Logo Toys are popular across the globe including India. Ty Inc has more than 200 designs and varieties.

Click here to read the Press Release

 

--> ... It's pretty obvious Ty's retirements are sporadic, spontaneous and without explanation.  2 of the 3 Walgreens bears from 2010 are retired, 1 is still current. This was done with the previous set, 2 are still current, 1 is retired. I don't know why styles that belong in a set get retired separately, but the fact we're getting any retirements at all is enough gratification, and not worth analyzing this any further.

Beanie Babies 2.0
1. Fable - unicorn
2. Hydrant - dalmatian
3. Maiden - ladybug
4. Scholars - bear (2008 without mortarboard/original version)

Basket Beanies
1. Hopson - bunny

Beanie Buddies
1. Bubblegum - lemur
2. Cleo - galago

--> These are also debatable. They've been removed completely from the Ty site as have the BOO-BOOs and regular sized BOOS of these two.

Pluffies
1. Squeakies - mouse

Ty Classics
1. Bixby - bear
2. Chips - dog (2009 version; white with black eyespot)
3. Everheart - bear
4. Fielding - bunny (2008 version) (the newer version is still available to order even though Ty still hasn't announced it)
5. Foofie - lhasa apso
6. Lancelot - lion
7. Scrumptious - bear
8. Woodside - bear

Hi Deb,
... I hope all is well and you take the time that you need. ...

 Ty did a decent-sized retirement today. Some of these are a little debatable, but I got this information from the Ty retailer site and the exclusives retired from the main Ty site... today would be the retirement date. There are some newer 2009 and 2010 releases on this list, so this was a good day for the collectors rather than the general gift market.

Beanie Babies
1. Beanie House Rock - bear
2. Bearning Love - bear
3. Blue Beanie Shoes - bear
4. Creamy - bear (Walgreens exclusive)
5. Garfield Stuck On You! - cat
6. Mischief - monkey
7. Pansy - bunny (Hallmark exclusive)
8. Petunia - bunny (Hallmark exclusive)
9. Posy - bunny (Hallmark exclusive)
10. Support - bear
11. Tyger - yorkshire terrier
12. Yummy - bear (Walgreens exclusive)

--> #11 is debatable since it still shows current on the Ty retailer site. The original Tyger was retired back in September when the new one was introduced on the current page. This could be a case of Ty just acknowledging the old one is retired, or Ty actually retiring all versions of Tyger and just forgetting to take it off the site and putting it as retired. It wouldn't be the first time something was overlooked on there. If it helps, Tyger is not available to order in any form, so I would say it's completely retired.

--> There's a debatable #13 and that would be Billionaire 12. It's looking like we're not getting an official announcement, so it'd be fair to say today would be its retirement date since no more will be produced.

--> And it's pretty obvious Ty's retirements are sporadic, spontaneous and without explanation. 2 of the 3 Walgreens bears from 2010 are retired, 1 is still current. This was done with the previous set, 2 are still current, 1 is retired. I don't know why styles that belong in a set get retired separately, but the fact we're getting any retirements at all is enough gratification, and not worth analyzing this any further.

... Doodle's note:  Additional news (and photos) to follow soon.  Thank you!

 

 ...    'Buddy Boo', 'Beanie Boo', and 'Boo Boo'
Check out the video clip below ...  a set of three "Boo's".  Is this a "Blueberry" prototype"? ... a future release?  We shall see.  (Notice the key-clip is called "Boo Boo".)
Click here to view the video
 

Hey Deb,
 
I thought I'd drop you a line to announce a soon-to-be revealed Beanie Baby fan website called Café Beanie. The exciting part about Café Beanie is that it is reader-interactive: it is set up in a blog format so that readers can easily respond to news and other posts in "real time," which is the inspiration for the Café Beanie tagline "A virtual coffeehouse for Beanie collectors."
 
All posts will be made by Mocha the Bearista, the fictional Beanie Baby "server" of Café Beanie.
 
Café Beanie will open on April 1, which is when I will be revealing the web address. I'm excited to jump back into the world of Beanie Baby websites after a very successful run with teenies.peacebears.com this last summer. So collectors, grab your favorite mug, sit back, relax and join me at Café Beanie on Thursday!
 
Thanks!
David

I asked the rep what we may be seeing for April other than what was featured in the catalog.

In addition to the remaining pieces out of the Ty catalog, we should be seeing what was introduced at Toy Fair next month. Of course, we won't be seeing these ship until the summer, but as long as Ty catches up and announces what is left, this is what we should be looking at for an April introduction (pending any unknown exclusives at this point, of course.)

April 2010

Beanie Babies:
Celebration - bear
Charlie Brown (musical)
Dora Happy Birthday (may be called Birthday Dora)
Dwynwen - dragon (announcement?)
Eleanor - chipmunk
Jeanette - chipmunk
Peace - bear
Snoopy - beagle (musical)
Woodstock - tumbler pigeon (musical)

Beanie BOOS:
Bananas - monkey (announcement?)
Blueberry - monkey
Lemonade - monkey
Sherbet - monkey (announcement?)

Beanie Buddies:
Alvin - chipmunk
Bamboo - panda bear
Bananas - monkey (announcement?)
Brittany - chipmunk

Pluffies:
PJ Bear - bear (redesigned for 2010 in Pluffies material without the bunny ears - blue version)
PJ Bear - bear (redesigned for 2010 in Pluffies material without the bunny ears - pink version)

Ty Classics:
Scooby-Doo (may be called Scooby-Dooby-Doo)
 

... Thanks to Fabric Friends and Dolls for sharing this info!

I just wanted to make a note that we're running a clearance on some Ty plush items for my mom's business. There may be some other clearances/discounts or sales coming soon, but for now, the following products are $7.50 each permanently (unless there's a sale somewhere in the future)

Beanie Buddies
Chinook - bear
Hornsly - triceratops
Legs - frog
Pierre - bear
Sakura - bear

Ty Classics
Belvedere - bear
Bo - portuguese water dog
Crystal - cat
Dynamite - monkey
Fogs - owl
Kissed - frog

Stay tuned and be sure to check out both sites for news/updates on any upcoming releases, sales, in stock/shipment updates, and so forth. Thanks, Marc  (Fabric Friends & Dolls)

 

 

 ...    St. Patrick's Day - Photo
St. Patrick's Day is March 17th (remember to wear green :).  Our thanks to Xavier for sharing his decorative display.

Hello Deb!  ... Here is a picture of my St. Patrick's Day TY and also some of my FROG beanies to make it a truly GREEN display!! LOL Hope your readers enjoy !! Xavier from NW Indiana/ CHGO

 

Added note:  Ty is now on Twitter also

 

 ...    Product Availability
If you have ordered, or would like to - the following was shared concerning product availability of some of the new items  ...

Hi Deb,

Here are pictures of the new releases that came in. I like them all. Ty has been doing a lot better job with the overall quality and design of his Beanies. I don't normally like cat Beanies, for example, but Bently is one of the best cats I've seen in a long time (my personal opinion).

And we can finally put this to rest... I read reports on your site about the new Gus having all black eyes, which sounded to me like a disappointment. I'm not saying that it is not true, as I have heard other reports of people finding those. If that is the case, then it looks like there are THREE versions of Gus. I knew I wasn't seeing things - the catalog stock photograph was NOT a light defect. The Gus we received today have the vermilion colored (red-orange) eyes I was talking about. A perfect color for taking pictures, as you can see the difference in the picture.

So, to reiterate, all of these are $4.99 each. Cookie Beanie BOO is sold out already. If collectors are looking for this version of Gus, I will say there's only one left. I can put other orders in but I only do that when I have another requests to go back and order. It's not worth ordering more stock if no one has an interest for it. We order a lot as it is. The others are available but in smaller stock too. As always, if you contact me first, you are entitled to it first. I let my mother knows and she stocks it up. Contact me if you are interested in purchasing any of these or other 2010 products. I will be happy to oblige. Thanks.

Regards,
Fabric Friends and Dolls

Game Developer’s Conference (GDC): In a further boost to the mobile gaming industry, leading mobile entertainment company New York-based Cellufun, the world’s 8^th largest mobile website has signed an agreement with Chicago-based Ty Inc, the world's largest maker of plush toys, outlining the development of a mobile game that will allow people to take care of their favorite Ty plush pets best known as “Beanie Babies”, virtually! According to the agreement, Ty will provide Cellufun its top branded Beanie Baby icons, known and collected by millions worldwide, for development into virtual pets further blurring the lines between the real and virtual!

The deal will enable mobile users across the globe to access m.Cellufun.com, known as “the world’s mobile playground,” on any mobile network and on any phone with a data plan and browser to adopt their favorite Beanie Baby, care for, nurture, feed and receive the unconditional love only a Beanie Baby can provide. All available at the touch of a button from the mobile device! Anytime, anywhere!

Talking about the “Ty”-up, Ty Inc CEO Ty Warner said, “It is our constant endeavor to provide new products that will increase the enjoyment of our plush characters through new distribution channels, virtual or real. Cellufun’s addictive social games are carefully designed for the enjoyment of everyone and we felt that they were the perfect partner to bring Ty into the mobile entertainment and gaming space. As the #1 maker of Plush Toys we feel confident that through our combined marketing prowess we can reach new audiences through this new medium, the mobile device. And as evidenced from the popularity of social gaming, we expect Cellufun and its new Mobile Ty Virtual Pets, to be an instant hit with people everywhere!!”

Cellufun CEO, Neil Edwards added, “Ty's Beanie Babies are the number 1 plush toy all around the world and we are excited that any consumer in the world can now take their Beanie Baby with them virtually on their mobile."

The following new items will be in stock/arriving tomorrow. Pictures will follow:

Beanie Babies:
Bently the cat
Gus the gecko (re-designed eye color for 2010)
Pinky the guinea pig

Beanie BOOS:
Cookie the basset hound
Tangerine the orangutan

Cookie Beanie BOO is sold out already. If anyone wants these, let me know and I may re-order. The others are in lower quantity/stock, so please contact me if you want these. First come first serve policy. Thanks for your support and keep checking us out.

Regards,
Fabric Friends and Dolls
 

Hi Deb,

Here are pictures of the latest Beanie BOOS/Beanie Buddies crossover series. They have Beanie BOOS hang tags but on the retailer site and main Ty site they are categorized with/classified as Beanie Buddies. One way or the other, these are spitting images of the smaller BOOS (although I can't tell on all because Cookie and Safari regular sized BOOS have not shipped for us yet.)  We are almost completely out of stock (there should be at least a full set left, maybe some others) but I may be putting in another order since they're doing so well. If anybody is interested, feel free to get in touch with me. They are $9.99 each or buy the full set and save a few bucks - $48.00 for the set of 5.

3/10/10 (Correction ... The Beanie BOO Buddy set, if you buy all 5, is $45.00 instead of $48.00. This was a later decision we made to change.)

Bamboo BOO Buddy will be released/shipping in April. Tangerine BOO Buddy has no plans for being announced, so that just may have been a prototype from the UK show, or Ty could turn around and make it later. Nothing is off limits and nothing is definite with Ty Inc. There will also be several other new BOOS introduced throughout the year.

Regards,
Marc
Fabric Friends and Dolls

 ...    Website Anniversary
Today I celebrate 14 years of running this website. As you know, my nickname is 'Doodle' ... I love art and creativity.  (I was always 'doodling' in school and often gave my teachers quite a laugh.)  When Beanie Babies were first introduced, I had fun collecting, and considered running a Beanie Baby website;  'Doodle' Beanie Baby's birthday is March 8, 1996.  The combination of these factors began this site on that date.

Of course, the biggest reward is the friends and fans I've gotten to 'know' over the years; I wouldn't be here without YOU.  I hope you continue to enjoy the site.  Thanks to everyone !!!

 ...   March Desktop Wallpaper / Calendar
If you miss the Ty desktop wallpaper, Brendan (the Sloth) can help you out.  He has uploaded March desktop wallpaper / calendar for your use at the following link:
Click here to view / download


Vicky has also shared March desktop wallpaper.
Click here to view / download

... Check them out and enjoy!  (Thanks to both for sharing)

 

 ...    Teenie Beanie Baby Promo at McDonald's Malaysia (2006) ... Compilation of Readers' Comments
Following the news posted on Thursday (March 4) on the Ty HearTy TBB Malaysia bear, I have compiled readers' comments below.  I would really like to see more photos of the Malaysia Ty Bears to compare; there's some confusion as to what was actually released, their authenticity, special promo? etc.  Notice the difference in the packaging, and the additional bear in the second photo?  If you can help with some additional information, I'd love to hear from you.  Email news@doodlespage.com

(Posted March 5)
Hello, I just wanted to comment on  the 4 Ty Bears Malaysia. I have 2 sets that were sent to me from a friend in Malaysia.. There was no green MyHearTY bear in either collection.... Now I want one... Eva in Columbus

(Posted March 6)
Hi Doodle, I haven't heard of the My HearTy bear.  Maybe that set is a special promo set that was only given to the employees?  Be sure to let us all know when you find something out.  Thks, Alecia

(Posted March 6)
Hi Deb,  I was interested to read about this HearTy bear on your site recently.  My take on the items is that all five of these My Ty Teenies could be from a subsequent promotion or possibly fake.  The reason I say this is because a photo of the My Ty Teenie bags on Aboutbeanies.com shows a completely different bag for the My Ty Teenies.  I have attached the photo of the bags.   I must say that the My Ty Teenies have been one of the most elusive and mysterious releases ever.   I tried to buy them back when they were first released, but I got scammed by someone on Ebay.  I would still love to own them, but can never find a listing anymore.  Any idea where I could look?
Thanks for continuing to be my #1 source for Beanie News!!
Best, Phil

(Photo shared by Phil  3-6-10)


(Photo shared by Mary  3-4-10)

 

 ...    Photos of 'Flower'
On February 16th, Ty posted the official introduction of 'Flower', the Ty UK Exclusive (meerkat) Beanie Baby.  (This Beanie appeared on February 9th in Ty's current listing. )  Our thanks to Jen of Abbey Bears for sharing some cute photos of the Beanie ... check out the smile :)

Jen writes:

Hi Deb,  Just to update you on the latest UK exclusive, FLOWER the Meerkat has finally arrived in store, he is adorable ( as you can hopefully see from the inhand pics I have added )
 
He is available from us here at Abbey Bears and works out at £5.99 + £2 Shipping/P+P for the first beanie and then just an extra 75pence on the Shipping cost for each beanie after that, so 2 would work out at £11.98 + £2.75  Shipping/P+P.
In US$ that all works out at roughly.......
 
$12 including Shipping for 1 Flower Beanie and then
$22 including Shipping for 2 Flower Beanies
etc, etc, etc
 
Hope this makes sense
many thanks to one and all,
from Jen ;)

Abbey Bears
01841 532484

 

 ...    Ty Store Product Addition
Ty has added another collection to Ty Store ... a Beanie Boos section (which includes Waddles, Coconut, Slush, Bamboo, Kooky, and Kiwi.)
Click here to view in Ty Store

... Thanks to Rosaleen for sharing

 

 

 ...    Teenie Beanie Baby Promo at McDonald's Malaysia - 2006 ... Readers' Comments
Following yesterday's news (on the Ty HearTy TBB Malaysia bear), one of our readers shares the following:

Hello, I just wanted to comment on  the 4 Ty Bears Malaysia. I have 2 sets that were sent to me from a friend in Malaysia.. There was no green MyHearTY bear in either collection.... Now I want one... Eva in Columbus

(Posted 12-4-06)

Doodle's note:  Mary shares the following:

Hello Deb, ...  I just recently bid on and won an auction and was very pleasantly surprised that it included a My HearTy Bear from the My Ty Bears 2006 McDonald's Malaysia Promotion. Seeing that I had not heard of or seen this particular version previously I checked your website and confirmed that there were only four My Ty Malaysia Exclusive Bears listed and not the My HearTy Bear. I would be interested to know if you or others may have seen this particular bear previously. I spoke with Karen Holmes earlier today and she thought that you might be interested in this information being someone who works so diligently to keep Ty products updated on your website. I will attempt to send you pictures of My HearTy Bear. Thank you for keeping Ty collectors updated with all the latest news.
Take care, Mary - New Hampshire, USA

 ...    Product Availability
Fabric Friends and Dolls advises us of the following:

Ty Products - Estimated Shipping Dates

March 2010
Bently (Beanie Babies)
Cookie (Beanie BOOS)
Pinky (Beanie Babies)
Shaggy (Ty Classics)
Tangerine (Beanie BOOS)
Walnut (Ty Classics) - first shipment already received

Beanie BOO Key-clips Collection
Beanie BOO Buddies Collection
  (The Beanie BOO Buddies for March will be in stock tomorrow)
Li'l Ones Collection - first shipment already received; second variation coming later

April 2010
Bearnie (Ty Classics) - second shipment
Boris (Ty Classics) - second shipment
Lemonade (Beanie BOOS)
Patches (Beanie Babies)
Prickles (Beanie Babies)
Safari (Beanie BOOS)
Scooby-Doo (Ty Classics)
Yodel (Beanie Babies)

May 2010
Celebration (Beanie Babies)
Dora Happy Birthday (Beanie Babies)
Peace (Beanie Babies)
Sequoia (Beanie Babies)
Tiny (Beanie Babies)

June 2010
Blueberry (Beanie BOOS)

 

 ...    Notes from Readers
In response to yesterday's note regarding Beanie Baby Exclusives, several readers have shared their opinions/comments; the posts are noted below.  Many collectors (including myself) consider the "specialty" store's Ty Beanie Babies (ie Walgreens, Barnes & Noble, etc.)  as "U.S. Exclusives".

Hey Deb,  I was reading the site today and  wanted to comment on the post about the US not having exclusive items recently.  I’m not sure if everyone is forgetting about all of the Walgreens beanies that have come out and continue to come out that are only available here in the US.  While they may not say “US exclusive” on the site, they are “Walgreens exclusive” and Walgreens are only found in the US (unless I am wrong and they are outside the US).  We also from time to time have other US location exclusives.  Like the book store, Barnes and Noble and food chain Bob Evans.  We do see quite a few beanies in the US that are sold at only US retailers.  So I would consider these beanies US exclusives as well.
Jason in TN

Was just wondering ... Wouldn't dvd exclusives, etc. be American exclusives?   We don't use the same dvds as europeans; and walgreens?
Christina

hi Deb -  .....What about all the USA exclusives last year?  (The UK had none). The UK beanie market is over (my own opinion as a collector) ... and has been for some time.  There are now NO Ty retailers where I live, a few years ago there were approx 15 within a 20 mile radius.  I think TY has left it far too late for interest in beanies again in the uk.

Hi Debs,  In response to your readers comments about the lack of US Ty exclusives - what about the Hallmark and Walgreens exclusives!  They're US only as are the WalMart DVD/Beanie combos.. Then there's the baseball 'giveaways'.. I'm sure there are others, but these are the obvious ones.  I don't think the US is doing that badly for exclusives when you think about the reduced output of Beanies over the last year.
Steve (Wales)

 

 

 ...   Photos ... and Product Availability
Our thanks to Marc, who shares the following:

Hi Deb,

As I said I would, here are pictures of the four Ty Classic bears announced in February and the full set of Li'l Ones dolls. We are sold out of Bearnie and Walnut. If anybody is interested in these, they may contact me and I'll consider another order. These are from the first run of limited release, as I was told that Bearnie and Boris won't ship again until April due to limitations. Also, this is the first version of the Li'l Ones. According to our rep, the second version will come out with hair brushes and possible minor aesthetical updates. There is potential for quick retirements on some of these, but there is guarantee from the rep / word at Ty that this version without the brushes will be a one time run only. Apologies for the blurriness on the Li'l Ones - I wasn't near light so it the flash reflected off of the plastic covering on the box for the dolls. Kind of hard to do. The Classics came out pretty nice though.

As always, people may e-mail me or contact me with questions and/or purchases, or visit my mother's site - http://fabricfriendsdolls.excitewebpages.com. We're still in the process of working out some bugs with the online ordering site, but I plan on launching it very soon. There's a couple of things keeping it from going live, and I don't want to launch it and have customers finding complications with the site.

We DO take PayPal now, so if you were holding off on purchasing until PayPal was available, then there's no wait anymore! Of course, other options are still available too.

Thank you. I hope to hear from you soon.

Regards,
Marc

Ty Classics - Walnut and Shaggy

Ty Classics - Bearnie and Boris

Li'l Ones - Oo-Lala Olivia and Trendy Taylor	Li''l Ones - Awesome Ashley and Beautiful Briana
Li'l Ones - Marvelous Mariah and Sweet Sydney	Li'l Ones - Hip Hannah and Preppy Paige

 

 

I also wanted to share some style numbers with you and I also forgot them until after I had sent you the email. I have only two U.K. Hello Kitty clips-the one with the red overalls and that style number is 46147 and Strawberry Hello Kitty and her style number is 46146. I also have the U.S. Hello Kitty clips and their numbers are Hello Kitty Tartan # 40820. Hello Kitty U.S.A. # 40816 and Hello Kitty with the red overalls # 40818. Snoopy # 40834 and Woodstock # 40835. Now I do have the Luke key-clip and the Kernow key-clip as well as the Dewi Ddraig key-clip but at the present time I am not sure where they're "hiding".

 

 ...    Product Availability
Fabric Friends and Dolls advises us of the following:

The following new Ty products have shipped and will be available in stock on Tuesday:

Ty Classics - $9.99 each
Bearnie - bear 
Boris - bear
Shaggy - bear
Walnut - bear

Li'l Ones - $4.99 each
Awesome Ashley
Beautiful Brianna
Hip Hannah
Marvelous Mariah
Oo-Lala Olivia
Preppy Paige
Sweet Sydney
Trendy Taylor

Note;  Some styles are already sold out; however, you can also reserve what is in stock.

 

 ...    Ty's Easter Basket Coloring Contest
On February 6th, Ty announced an Easter Coloring Contest, coming soon.  Today the details have been posted.

Four lucky winners will receive the following:
  6 - Easter 8" Beanie Babies,
  8 - Easter 13" Beanie Buddies, and
  7 - Adorable 5" Basket Beanies
Check www.ty.com each day to see the basket that will be entered into our drawing to win one of four plush filled Easter baskets!

To Enter:
    Click here to print out the Easter basket, then draw and color in your favorite Beanies!

Mail to:
  Ty Easter Basket Coloring Contest
  P O Box 5377
  Oakbrook, IL  60522

(Don't forget to include your name, address and e-mail address.)
Send in your basket drawings from March 1, 2010 until March 28, 2010
Winners announced on April 2, 2010

Click here for complete Contest Rules and Details
 

 ...    Honor Roll Beanie Baby
On May 1, 2007, Ty introduced a Ty Store Exclusive, 'Honor Roll; retired December 27, 2007 (among 200+ Beanie Babies).  The graduation dog had a '2007' cap, and carried a diploma.  What's interesting is Honor Roll has reappeared in Ty Store WITHOUT the cap.  (See photos below).   (We assume it's the same dog ... images can be deceiving sometimes (ie color, facial features, etc.).   Maybe this will suffice if you need a graduation Beanie this year.

Marc shares the following: 
" ...The 2007 Ty Store Beanie Baby Honor Roll the dog has been updated with its mortarboard removed. It still has the diploma in its mouth. This is similar to the redesigns done on Scholars the bear (Beanie Baby 2.0), Grads the bear (Ty Classics) and Grad the dog (Ty Classics)."
 

Added note:  Feb 24
Marc also adds:  "... Looks like Ty did the same thing to Smarty, the 2005 graduation owl. Just a removal of the hat. So I guess this is the third version of that owl."  It's only February, there may be a new graduation Beanie this year {perhaps} without a date anywhere on it.)."


 

 ...    New York Toy Fair (Additional Info)
Following yesterday's report on the NY Toy Fair, the following additional information can also be noted:
,,, Thanks for sharing once again, Marc.  I'm anxious to see the Li'l Ones in person; ... and musical Beanie Babies sounds quite intriguing.

• The Li'l Ones are expected to be a big hit and nothing like previous doll lines in the past. I've seen them in person and they appear to be more detailed plastic than vinyl as previously reported. Regardless, they are very small (5") and detailed, and look better than any other doll related line Ty has put out combined, meaning better than the Ty Girlz, Angeline, Beanie Boppers and Beanie Kids combined.

• Charlie, Snoopy and Woodstock Beanie Babies will be musical and have a small device inside them that plays Vince Guaraldi's "Linus and Lucy", the official Peanuts/Charlie Brown theme song (any Peanuts fan knows how that goes, but if you don't, look for it online). They will retail approximately $5.99 - $6.99 each. More information will come later on these as they are supposedly now an early summer ship date.

• Eleanor and Jeanette Beanie Babies will be joined by Alvin and Brittany Beanie Buddies (just the two in Buddy format, no other chipmunks for now) and they will have an early summer ship date as well. Shipping dates/release dates change around with companies all of the time and they're entitled to, so sometimes that makes previous information a little off. so please do not hold this site or anyone else to that.

• The regular Beanie Baby line will continue to expand (yes, 2.0's are done and over) and maybe new ideas and concepts are on the horizon. I hope this can only mean more new animals to be released.

• The plush lines (most notably Ty Classics) will be limited to safe sellers only, so don't expect to much out of the realm of bears, dogs, cats, monkeys, horses, etc.

• To compensate for the plush lines' limited animal designs, the BOO Buddies will provide a venue for more interesting and creative designs going forward. The BOO Buddies and Key-clips do not have an estimated ship date, they may be before all of the licensed characters. My guess - around late April/early May but I don't know for sure.

• Kooky the koala and Kiwi the frog will not see a future release in clips or Buddies form; potential future retirement? Maybe, maybe not. The rest of them will see a future release. Blueberry and Lemonade are not announced yet so there's no way of telling whether they'll get future Buddies or clips. In general, I think the BOOS is a great way for Ty to start over his original animal designs again and keep them appealing to kids and adult collectors alike.

 I think Ty is finally learning how to please and cater to both markets, the longtime dedicated collectors and the general public looking for a few here or there as gifts or knickknacks. Way to go Ty! Let's get this show on the road.

 ...    NEC UK Show (Additional Photos)
After posting the news shared by Jen on Wednesday, I failed to post the Snoopy and Woodstock Key-Clips.   There were over 30 pictures to post; somehow those were missed.  Both are now on the page to view.
Click here to read the Report and view Photos (updated)

 ...    Comments from Readers
You may have noticed there has been quite a spark in Ty releases lately ... and lots of new products are just around the corner.  Posted below are various comments shared by readers.  )There have been some interesting observations from information / photos we have recently posted.)
... Thanks to all for sharing
 

Katherine writes:
Hi Doodle,  Awesome!!!  So much to absorb, so much to see, so much to look forward to.  Beanies have been a long time hobby of mine, but to be honest, I have slowed down quite a bit with collecting.  Like probably many others, I just started buying the ones I really liked over the last year or so.  Then it got difficult to even find what I wanted, so I started losing interest.  Now that I see what's around the corner, I'm quite excited, and even back in touch with my UK trade friend.  I do wish we had a U.S. Exclusive so I could help her with something on this side of the pond!   I'm not real fond of asking when I don't have anything really special for her.  :(   Anyway I'm back on board again, with the fun of 'hunting' for that special one.  Boy, does it remind me of "the good ole days".  And a Charlie Brown Beanie Baby! .... now THAT would be awesome.  Guess we shall see.  Thanks so much for keeping us "in touch" with all the news.  You're website is always updated and so informative.  We thank you so much for all you do!  +Katherine+

Susan writes:
Hey Doodle  Thanks so much for sharing all the latest beanie news happenings.  Both Show reports were awesome -- I am so excited.  After seeing such repetition (with the same ole, same ole), it's fun to get some renewed excitement.  Can't wait to see the new products in person.  Just hope I can find what I'm looking for, beanies seems a lot more scarce in my area.  Anyway, I just wanted to thank you and the two people who shared the Show reports.  Keep up the nice work.  Love ur site!  <smiles from Susan>

Ted writes:
The new products should show renewed interest as far as longtime collectors are concerned.  Many people were probably getting bored with Ty these last several months.  I hope to find the key-clips, my grandchildren love them.  And the plastic clips are much more preferable, my personal opinion anyway.  I may be old, but I love to put a smile on the kid's faces when I bring them a special surprise.  Brings back memories when my daughter collected several years ago!  Regards, Ted

Sally writes:
BORING BORING BORING.  I was disinterested (and asleep) with collecting ANYTHING Ty.  I had literally given up and thought "Who cares what Ty does?"  But now; hmmm, after seeing what's coming, maybe I'll wake up to the hobby again.  TY = thank you.  Sally

Marc writes
#1. Flower looks way better in person. And the fact that it's a new animal = instant buy.
#2. Dwywen is awesome as well. I love that style of dragon that Ty has done for a few years, and the bright vibrant purple is a nice color and makes it stand out from Legend the dragon. But I wonder why it hasn't been released yet or announced or why we didn't know about it from before - it is for St. Dwynwen's Day, which is January 25th.
#3. Maybe I'm the only one noticing it, but standing next to Dwynwen in the picture is a Dewi Y Ddraig Beanie Baby. Ty only released a Key-clip and Ty Classic version of the green dragon last May. There is no Beanie Baby to accompany it, and I never knew why. Maybe it's just a prototype or a model for scale, but maybe we're finally getting the third product to the set. Although, it wouldn't be the first time products have been canned. Remember last year's Toy Fair? Ty Horsez were supposed to come out after the Petz to accompany the Ty Girlz.  But you know how that song and dance goes - Ty Girlz are being phased out by the Li'l Ones, so there's really no point anymore.
#4. All of the new Beanies and other products that we're getting in stock next month are looking good. I'm not disappointed in one style I see, and that's unusual. No complaints.
#6. In the Beanie BOO Buddies (or whatever they decide to call them), I see the following... Bubblegum, Cleo, Bananas (these 3 UK exclusives or just Bananas?), Bamboo, Slush, Tangerine, Cookie, Safari, Waddles, Coconut. So again, every BOO except for Kiwi, Kooky, Lemonade and Blueberry. The only difference between the clips and the Buddies is that there doesn't appear to be a Bananas (UK exclusive) clip but I do see a Buddy for it.
Take care, Marc

 ...    Li'l Ones (Silently Appear)
Ty has quietly posted the anxiously awaited Li'l Ones, available to view on the product dropdown menu on Ty's website.  We posted news of this new product in mid-December; and many collectors have anxiously waited their official announcement and arrival.  There are are total of eight dolls:

Awesome Ashley
Beautiful Brianna
Hip Hannah
Marvelous Mariah
OO-Lala Olivia
Preppy Paige
Sweet Sydney
Trendy Taylor

Click here to view on Ty's website

 ...    New York Toy Fair
As you know, the NY Toy Fair was February 14-17.  Thanks to Marc, who has shared some interesting information on some upcoming surprises we may see soon.   He writes:

Although we were not in attendance at the New York Toy Fair this past weekend, I was told that Ty Warner was there all five days and there was a lot of new stuff to be offered, some not even available in the catalog. More surprises.

I was told by our rep the following:

-->There will be Alvin and the Chipmunks plush to be released (which would mean Beanie Buddies or Ty Classics, probably the latter since it appears Beanie Buddies are being reserved for Nickelodeon characters at the moment and Scooby-Doo will be a Ty Classic as well)

-->The last two Chipettes, Eleanor and Jeanette, will be released as Beanie Babies to complete a full set. Also, it appears all of the Alvin and the Chipmunks Beanie Babies are available to order again, so we may restock those soon. It appears new plush and Beanie Babies are being released since Alvin and the Chipmunks has been greenlighted for a third movie release.

-->There will be Beanie Babies of Snoopy (hopefully it does not look like the 2007 version), Woodstock, and... CHARLIE BROWN. That's right, Charlie Brown is becoming a Beanie Baby. It looks like Ty has a good partnership with the Charles Schulz Foundation now. These were available to order at the show, but for those who weren't there, they should be able to order them in March.

-->There may have been other releases, I will have to go back and confirm them. No pictures available as we didn't attend the show. This is just confirmed word of mouth.


-->This line is a RUMOR, and not to be taken as fact as the other pieces of information are - other potential Beanie Baby lines for upcoming movie series/genres are Shrek (for the fourth and final movie this May), Yogi Bear (for the movie to be released December 2010), and The Jetsons (to be released potentially in 2011). This would make sense as Ty seems to have rights/partnering with both Dreamworks and Hannah Barbera.

Regards, Marc

 

 ...    NEC UK Show
I will post additional news and/or comments soon.  :)

 ...    Ty Store Additions
Remember the somewhat scarcity of Beanie Baby 'Hugamus'?  On December 1, 2008, Ty silently posted Hugamus as a Ty Store Exclusive on the website.  Within two weeks, it disappeared from Ty Store, but was still listed as 'current' on Ty's site.   What's interesting is this Beanie now (re)appears in Ty Store again.  And along with this hippo ... LOTS of new additions.
... Our thanks to Rosaleen for sharing this news

 ...    Sports Giveaways
I'm sure most everyone is looking forward to Spring now!  And typically this time of year, the MLB websites add their promotional items to the game schedules.  Thanks to Dan's keen eye, he shares that the Chicago Cubs have listed a Cubs/Dora the Explorer 7" plush, Exclusive limited-edition, May1st vs the Diamondbacks, to the 1st 5,000 children (Age 7 and under).  There is no mention of this plush as a Ty-giveaway; we'd like to assume it is.
Click here to view on the Chicago Cubs website

 ...    NEC - UK Show Report
As noted in yesterday's Show Report news, I will be posting some additional information soon.  From the email responses I have received from collectors recently, Ty seems to have sparked the 'hobby' a bit, with a nice variation of upcoming products.  Many can't wait to see the new 'line' of Beanie Boos (key-clips and Buddy/Classic size), as well as the Li'l Ones ... and more!  :)



 

 ...    NEC - UK Show Report
Wow!  Our thanks for a very informative report from Jen J. on the NEC Show held last week in Birmingham, UK.  There's lots of information, new products (including Beanie Boo Buddies and Key-Clips), UK Exclusives, Beanie Babies (we have mentioned but yet to be announced, ie Peace and Tiny), and more.  The reports and photos can be viewed at the following link.
... Doodle's note:   We appreciate all the time taken to share your Show report with everyone!
Click here to read the Report and view Photos

 

 ...    Ty's Current Beanie List
Thanks to Rosaleen, who writes:
Creamy, Smoothie and Yummy have finally been added to the current list of beanie babies. However, Yummy is still missing his/her poem-perhaps it will appear tomorrow.



 

 ...    A Quick Note
My personal schedule is quite full (and hectic) at the moment.  So my apologies if I don't answer your emails right away.  (I always try to respond quickly ... so please be patient.)  Thank you!

 

Also, if you wish to order any Ty products (especially Easter-themed), retailers will be ordering soon.  It is my understanding, from several emails, that certain products are a bit more scarce to find than others.
(Visit Fabric Friends and Dolls  ... Remember, you can always pre-order.)

 ...    Ty Newsflash - Official Introduction
Today Ty has posted the official introduction of 'Flower', the Ty UK Exclusive meetkat Beanie Baby.  (This Beanie appeared on February 9th in Ty's current listing, with a photo on February 10th.)
Click here to view the Newsflash

 ...    NY Toy Fair (Update)
As we noted earlier, the American International Toy Fair began Sunday (February 14-17 ) at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.  Our thanks to Kathy E. who shares the following:

 ...    Ty Store Additions
Today Ty has added yet another section to Ty Store ... a "Clip" section that consists of 17 Key-Clips, Including some of the recently released ones.
... Thanks to Rosaleen for sharing this news


 

 ...    American International Toy Fair
The 107th American International Toy Fair begins today (February 14-17 ) at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.  According to the ToyAssociation.org website, Ty will be in attendance,  Booth 721  
Click here to visit the website

... Doodle's note:  We'll post any info as it becomes available.   (If you attend the Toy Fair, and have news you wish to share, we'd love to hear from you.)

 ...   New Product - Photo (Added)
'Baby Woods - Blue' Pluffie has been added to the photos (see yesterday's news).
... Thanks, Marc




 ...   'Flower' the Meerkat
If you're interested in the story behind this new Beanie and it's (possible) origin, you can read below what several have shared:

• Marc writes:
  I think I figured out now why Flower the meerkat is a Ty UK release. It looks to be named after a popular meerkat from an Animal Planet television series. The footage aired in the UK where the meerkat family lived, and this particular mother died back in 2007 from a snake bite. Why it's just being produced now I'm not sure about but maybe there's an anniversary or memorial or some other commemorative event in 2010 or the near future. That's my best guess for it.
  
  Here's a little background reading:
  http://animal.discovery.com/fansites/meerkat/flower/flower.html

• Marty writes:
  Flower the meerkat (Animal Planet series) was the dominant female in a matriarchal group.  This guy seems very male.  Marty

 

• Cindy writes:
  To correct a bit of incorrect information regarding the meerkats of Meerkat Manor.  They did not live in the UK.  The meerkats lived in the Kuruman River Reserve in South Africa in the Kalahari Desert.  The professor leading the study is a professor at the University of Cambridge.  Cindy W.

... Doodle's note:  Thanks for sharing!  I'm a meerkat novice, and really clueless at this point.  I knew what they looked like, but their background? ... Like I said, I'm a rookie on this one!  :)  And still unsure why this Beanie is a UK Exclusive.

 ...   New Product - Photos
Our thanks to Marc, who shares photos of some of the new Ty products ... Basket Beanies, Beanie Babies, Key-Clips, Ty Classics, and Pluffies.

 ...   Tag Generation Change
It looks like a new generation hang tag can be found on some of the newest Beanies.  Thanks to Mary for sharing the following:

 ...   Vancouver 2010 Olympics
The Winter Olympics begin in Vancouver, Canada, tomorrow (February 12-28).  You can view the scheduled events at www.vancouver2010.com.   One of our readers, Lisa, shares some pictures of the Olympics in Beanieland

Hi, Deb,   Since the winter Olympics start on the 12th, I thought I would send you pictures of my beanie Olympic display.  Dora is on the podium after winning the gold medal in ice skating.  In the bleachers are fans from around the world, including Dora's world sisters.   Hope you like it!  Lisa S (aka giraffedolly)

 ...   Back in Business
 Fabric Friends and Dolls is back up and running (see note below), and shares the following today:

Hi Deb,  .... We got our internet back this evening ... we're back on to take business, so people can contact me again.  Please 'bear with me as I have to play catch up on all of the previous outstanding orders.
Fabric Friends and Dolls
 

To all of you have (or are) experiencing the cold, winter, snowy days, have patience.  Spring HAS to eventually come, and this Winter will be behind us.  And probably (hopefully) sooner than we think.  In the meantime, stay warm, stay safe!

 

 ...   New UK Exclusive Beanie Baby - 'Flower' (Update)
Ty has now (silently) posted the UK Exclusive Beanie Baby 'Flower' on the website (in the current Beanie listing), with no official introduction  (see yesterday's news.)  And too cute!  Click on the link below to view.  (This Beanie has been added to our Exclusive Beanie Babies list.
... Thanks to Andi, Rosaleen, and Marty for sharing the news of this new 'meerkat'

 ...   New UK Exclusive Beanie Baby - 'Flower'
It looks like a new UK Exclusive Beanie Baby will be making an appearance soon.  One of our readers (Rosaleen), with a very sharp eye, writes:

 ...   Gus the Gecko
As you may recall, we shared news earlier of a slight eye-color change expected with the 'Gus' Beanie Baby shipping this month.  One of our readers, Nancy, shares the following:

Hi Deb:  Just thought I'd tell you that I saw the newer version of this lizard at Cracker Barrel and at a Hallmark.  There is no difference other than the eyes, which appear to be all black.  I prefer the first version and did not purchase the newer reptile; just letting you know that they are out there now.
Nancy

... Thanks for sharing, Nancy.  If anyone wishes to share their finds, please drop us a line.




 

 ...   More News to Follow
I do have a bit more news to share (shortly).  I have had no internet connection for a few days (no explainable reason why!).  But back up and running now, hopefully not momentarily.   Thank you for your patience!


 

 ...   Ty 'Billionaire 12' Bear
I had a reader recently asked if I was aware of a new Billionaire Bear.  Well, it looks like 'Billionaire Bear 12' is now in existence.  Thanks to Lisa and Shirley, who have pointed us to an eBay auction, listing this bear.  (According to the auction, 357 bears exist, and are autographed by Ty Warner.)   It's a dark blue bear, with a gold ribbon, a $ sign, and the number 12.  The auction states it was just released February 5.
Click here to view the auction




 ...   Ty Easter Coloring Contest
Coming soon to the Ty website... an Easter Coloring Contest.  Details to follow soon.






 ...   Congrats to the Ty Valentines' Contest Winners