Helly Bear

Made by Beqster

Helly Bear is a love child! She was born on the 30th day of December in 2001, in Solihull, West Midlands. At birth she measured 15 inches in height and weighed 12 ounces. Her fur is golden and her eyes are brown. She is still wearing the red sweater (with two love hearts) that Belle bought her in 2001, and she was hopeful that Beqster might have splashed out on some new clothes for their cruise to Alaska. However, a sweater was the ideal choice of clothing!

In the winter of 2001, Beqster was working in the Caribbean, and didn't meet the new addition to the family until January of 2002, when Belle and the newly-born Helly Bear joined him on the Voyager and Veendam. Since that time Helly Bear has travelled the world with Beqster, visiting more than half the globe.

Helly Bear has many cousins, but her closest and most important is Donkey from Santorini, who travels with Belle. When at home, Helly Bear likes to date Eric... the less said about this, the better.

Despite being called Helly "Bear", this beautiful young lady is, without doubt, a Labrador Retriever; a breed of sporting dog, originally trained to fetch killed or wounded game... I don't know if Belle was trying to tell Beqster something by her choice of companion!

The breed originated in Newfoundland, Canada, and was imported into England early in the 19th century. The dog has a short and exceedingly dense black, yellow, or chocolate-coloured coat that is almost impervious to water. It has a wide skull, medium-sized ears hanging fairly close to the head, eyes that are usually black or brown, a wide, deep chest, and straight legs. The characteristic “otter” tail of the Labrador retriever is of medium length, very thick at the base, and tapering gradually to the tip. The tail is covered thickly with the same kind of short, dense hair that is found in the coat.

This definition, describes Helly Bear flawlessly. And, therefore, despite the skeptiscism, uncertainty, reservations and disbelief of many... Helly Bear IS a golden retriever!

Being available for a cuddle 24/7, and whenever Beqster is away from Belle, saying "Night, night, Beqster. I love you." On occasion, Helly Bear has been known to try and offer more comfort for Beqster, by removing her sweater or licking his ears, but this is strictly forbidden, and will probably become an addendum to the contract of 2001.