52 on Fridays (12/52) Make-Believe

When Lady Annaliese Crawley, the little-known youngest daughter of Downton Abbey, first expressed the desire to follow in her older sister’s footsteps by joining the ranks of the nursing corps, it was widely accepted as an unacceptable endeavor. Annaliese possessed the delicate nature of a young lady raised gently. The family certainly knew the dangers of exposing her to the painful truths of war.  As a grand compromise, Annaliese was allowed to attend to injured stuffed animals. While many of us disregarded these toys as mere trinkets, Annaliese worked tirelessly to improve the condition of those she called the least among us. 

They were the friends that went to war with the hope and love and well wishes of those left behind filling every hollow that fluff and stitch could not reach. One such wounded war companion was Amos Bear. As his fleshed companion earned the rank of Captain, so did this brave bear as he kept the hope and spirits of his friend steadfast. Capt. A. Bear was the possession of the small daughter of the fleshed Captain sent to war as a reminder of a child's love for her father.  After the war cost him an eye, Captain A. Bear lived with the dread that his small girl wouldn't love him in this broken state. Annaliese took extra time with Capt. A. Bear, consoling him before bed and when early morning memories of home made his stay in the animal hospital too much to take. Most days the bear's only comfort was the tiny, kind nurse that reminded him of his Emily.

When it seemed the tiny bear Captain was at his lowest, a promise of a brighter day arrived. A letter, worn and addressed to the wounded bear, came from his dear Emily. Capt. A. Bear could only put the letter down long enough for Annaliese to read it to him.  Emily was filled with delight that her dear bear would be coming home with her father. She knew of injuries but paid them no mind. She loved her bear no matter what.

 And with the peace the letter brought, Captain Amos Bear was finally able to rest and dream of his reunion with his dear Emily. One day soon he would see her again.

 

Not ready for the pretending to end? Please visit Melissa at Melissa Noste Photography.  Her creamy, rich, beautiful style will most certainly be perfect for this week's Make Believe theme.