Bears, bunting, and Bible stories: Ballinamallard's unique teddy bear festival
Inside Magheracross Parish Church, colourful bunting adorned the walls, and beside each church pew stood an exhibit, a Bible story brought to life through teddy bears.
Paws for thought: Bears bring bible to life in Ballinamallard
From bears studying the Bible to reenacting the Christmas story, communities across Fermanagh have united to create this remarkable festival, featuring almost 400 bears.
The festival includes 28 installations, one of which is displayed in Ballinamallard's Archdale Hall: The Teddy Bear's Picnic, created by the Ballinamallard Craft Class.
At the Archdale Hall, tea served on delicate tea sets and cakes accompanied by pasties will be available for festival attendees.
One of the displays features a large bear donated by the Bishop of Clogher, the Right Rev. Dr Ian Ellis, covered in an array of bear-themed ties provided by hotelier Joe Mahon.
The Teddy Bear Festival was organised by Valerie McMorris and her husband, Howard McMorris, and Rev. Lorraine Capper. With the support of people and organisations across the Fermanagh community.
The festival was officially opened by the Right Rev. Dr Ian Ellis, accompanied by a performance from the Ballinamallard Primary School choir and a live piano recital by Ruth Coulter.
Leading the choir was Principal Christina McEldowney. The children sang Teddy Bears' Picnic, The Bare Necessities, and Seek Ye First with a spiritual twist, enhancing the atmosphere of the event.
The festival will be open from Friday through Sunday, featuring many musical performances throughout the weekend, including the Silvertones Male Voice Choir, who will close the festival on Sunday at 5 pm.
For more information on the teddy bear festival, visit the Magheracross Parish Church Facebook page: https://tinyurl.com/magheracross
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
5 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
27 Chewy Products If Your Dog Goes With You Everywhere
A front carrier so you can keep your small pup as close to you as possible (which is obvi exactly where they belong). Now you can always have your much-deserved cuddles while still going on walks, checking things off your to-do list, or maybe even pushing a stroller with your ~human~ baby inside. Promising review: "We use this pet carrier to give our little Ziggy a chance to see the world. He is loving it." —ElysePrice: $21.99+ (originally $26.99+; available in three sizes and three colors) A portable water bowl that allows you to easily carry water and give it to your furry friend without making a huge mess (or trying to use your hand as a makeshift bowl — yeah, we've all been there). Promising review: "I was looking for something easier to bring on walks and park trips. Folding bowls always end up knocked over in park excitement, plus you still need water in a separate container. This little thing is perfect: simply squeeze for water, and when done the water drains into the bottle. It works just fine for my almost 70 pound German Shepherd. Great little product!" —StephaniePrice: $20 (available in five colors) Or a splash-free dog bowl if your doggo had too much out and about and can't wait to get home before gulping down some ice cold water. The special design makes sure you won't have to clean up a messy car when you get home. Promising review: "This is an amazing spill-free water bowl. My dogs could jump in the car, the water is waiting for them, and I don't have to dump it before I start traveling. Genius!" —PattyPrice: $13.95 (originally $15.99) A supplies organizer and tote so you can pack up all your toys, food, treats, and other gear you need to make sure your doggo is just as prepared as you are (or TBH probably even more prepared than you...) It even comes with two food containers and two collapsible bowls so they can have meal time on the go. Promising reviews: "This bag has plenty of room for everything you need to take with, whether it is a day at the park or get out of town thing. Lots of compartments and made well." —Susan"I take my dog with me as much as I can when I travel and this was perfect to keep his supplies organized. I took both my dog and cat home for the holidays and this bag had more than enough space to fit all of their food, toys, blankets, and Christmas PJs with plenty of room to spare." —RebeccaPrice: $29.99 (originally $49.99; available in three colors) A harness with reflective piping on the edges to make sure your doggo is comfortable and easily visible. You can choose to attach the leash to the front or back and there's even a handle to give you extra control when that neighborhood squirrel starts taunting your pup again. Promising review: "We purposely bought another one for our new puppy. We love these harnesses as they have the grab handle on top, which has been so handy in many ways. They are also reflective, so they glow really well when car lights or flashlights shine on them." —DeannaPrice: $29.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and five colors) A car seat cover so you can stop awkwardly draping blankets over the seats just to have to constantly pull them back up. Plus this is water resistant to help prevent any spills or accidents from seeping into your seats or floor mats. Promising review: "Very easy to use, also easy to take out and put back. We bought it to replace an old one that was always covered in dog hair. Washing, brushing, nothing could clean it. We have had this one for about a month and guess what! It doesn't bind the dog hair. What a relief! The seat is comfortable and fits great and dog fur free." —SusanPrice: $34.99+ (available in two sizes and three colors) A paw cleaner to make sure they don't track mud from your latest hiking adventure all over your freshly cleaned floors. All you have to do is fill it with some water, stick a paw in, give a couple of twists, and *boom* fresh and clean toe beans. Promising review: "This MudBuster is phenomenal! Highly recommend to all my dog lovers. Mud season is upon us here in WI, and it is in full force with my 9-month-old yellow Lab! He loves to be outside no matter the weather. We bought the medium and it is just the right size for our pup. He doesn't seem to mind it either, we just have him give us a shake and praise him the whole time we're cleaning his paws with the MudBuster. Warm water and the tiniest amount of Dawn dish soap is all we use." —mudseasonPrice: $13.88+ (originally $16.99+; available in three sizes and three colors) An adorable raincoat 'cause you aren't gonna let a little rain ruin your parade! Now you can keep going on your stroll or running your errands even when it's sprinkling cause your pup will be nice and dry. Not to mention looking suuuper cute with their little rubber duckies. 🥹 Promising review: "The coat covers my pup so well that she arrives home dry after a walk in the rain. It's easy to put on, and who doesn't look adorable in a turquoise raincoat covered with yellow rubber duckies? I wish I had a matching coat or umbrella." —JudyPrice: $4.65+ (originally $12.99; available in sizes XS–XXXL and two colors/patterns) A bike basket that is giving Wizard of Oz but in a much less evil way. Seriously, if this isn't just the cutest thing ever IDK what is. Your pup is gonna love feeling the breeze in their fur and watching all the cars go by. Promising review: "My 8-pound Chihuahua is usually nervous about everything, but she was relaxed and ready to go in this basket. The interior lining is super soft (removable for washing), and there are two short leashes that keep her secure even when she puts her paws up on the edge to see better. The bag attached easily to my e-bike and is quick to remove and re-attach. Nice zippered pocket on the side for the collapsible water dish and treats. Piper loves b-i-k-e r-i-d-e-s now (we have to spell it or she gets excited). ;-)" —HeatherPrice: $62.21 (originally $136.99) The *classic* lamb chop plush toy that you've certainly seen at least once at a pet store. I swear this is the mascot of dogs across the country and since you'll need to make sure your pup is entertained wherever you go, obvi you should pick one that you know will be a winner. Reviewers say their dogs love these so much they have to keep getting them new ones (but their pup won't let them get rid of the old ones!). Promising review: "I was a little surprised with the jumbo size of Lamb Chop, but the dogs love it. Our senior male golden, who is 99% tennis-ball-or-forget-it, carries Lamb Chop around like he would a puppy, gently by the scruff of the neck. He even sleeps with it under the dining table (his den)." —paulPrice: $3.99+ (available in three sizes) A clip-on poop-bag dispenser which comes with one roll of bags so you never find yourself in that awkward situation after your dog has done their business and you realize you have no way of cleaning it up. Promising review: "Absolutely love the quality and look of it. I have tried so many dispensers in the past and this one is my absolute best!" —GigiRamirezPrice: $4.99 And some extra bags that are leakproof so you don't have to worry about any 💩 getting onto you. The orange scent option can help conceal any nasty stank your doggo produced today. Let's get a round of ~appaws~ for making an unpleasant job slightly less miserable. Promising reviews: "I like these bags for many reasons, but especially because you can easily open them when they come off the roll. No standing and picking at them to get the edges to separate so you can use!" —Margaret"I like that these bags are made with some recycled plastic, but wish they were compostable. They are very strong. I have had to use them twice in the car as barf bags and they were great!" —LynnPrice: $8.99+ (available in a 120- or 960-count and two scents) An LED light-up collar that's giving glow-in-the-dark ~rave~ vibes, all while keeping your dog safe on nighttime walks. Promising review: "These things are so bright, they're amazing. Our dogs run loose, supervised, around our property, and you can see the dogs from hundreds of feet away. Three dogs, three different colors, it's so easy to keep track of them and know when to call them back if they get too far. We only use them when we are walking our property with the dogs, but we go out quite a few times before I recharge them." —JustinPrice: $18.99+ (originally $24.99, available in sizes XS–L and seven colors) A treat tote so you can always have some goodies for your perfectly behaved pup within an arms reach. Promising review: "This is pretty great. It holds a decent amount of snacks, it clips on your pants/belt/pocket for easy access and portability, and there's a cute little drawstring so you can seal the bag and it doesn't spill out when you lean over! Excellent product." —JewellPrice: $5.76+ (available in two sizes and three colors that ship randomly) And some scrumptious treats they will surely devour at any opportunity. Go ahead and grab them two flavors: beef for a savory snack and peanut butter and oats for a sweet treat. It's gonna take some real willpower for you to not give them like 20 at a time when you see how much they love 'em. Promising review: "I have three toy part schnauzers and a cattle-doodle. When I say 'Mini Zukes,' my dogs come RUNNING. They will do A-N-Y-T-H-I-N-G for this treat. I keep several tins of them around the house. If you keep them in a sealed container, they stay soft. If they are left to air out, they will get harder, but it makes absolutely no difference to my dogs. At my house, it's all Mini Zukes." —LarryPrice: $3.46+ (originally $4.99+; available in four sizes, multi-packs, and six flavors) A portable mat so no matter where you go or how gross the ground might be your fur baby can have a comfy (and clean) place to rest. Promising review: "Needed a place to track my service dog to use when we are out. This gives her a clean spot to lay when we are in public. Under some table and chairs can be quite gross." —ChristinaPrice: $21.99 (available in three colors) Some water- and puncture-resistant dog boots that are not only practical since asphalt is typically 40–60 degrees hotter than the air, but also who doesn't think a pup in booties is adorable? Promising review: "I love them for my little guy. He is getting used to them and moves around pretty normally. Using these booties has increased his stamina and endurance in this frigid and snowy weather — especially in the snow. He can be out in it and forge his own path to do his business without that darn snow getting packed in his paws. So SO HAPPY I bought these for him." —BettyPrice: $27.99+ for a four-count (available in sizes S–XXL and four colors) And a natural paw balm, in case you forget the booties, so your fur baby doesn't have to suffer any pain from cracked or dry paw pads since they walk everywhere with you. Promising reviews: "I purchased Musher's Secret through Chewy to try to provide some protection from hot surfaces when my dog refused to walk in the two pair of booties I purchased for him. He definitely seems more comfortable on warm surfaces in the hot weather, but there were several other pluses with the product. It does a great job in healing cracked and dry paws. I was also shocked to see that the other reviews speaking to the lack of paw prints on the floor after applying were absolutely accurate. My dog must find it soothing to have it applied, as he readily lies on his back while I massage the Musher's Secret into each paw pad. What a great product!!" —Barbara "My dog — 75% Husky — loves the ice and snow. What we do not love is the painful, non-pet-safe salt that is everywhere! This gives him the protection he needs because he would not tolerate boots!" —MaryPrice: $15.99+ (originally $16.99+; available in three sizes) A stroller that has all the fancy components of a regular ~human~ stroller (cup holder! collapsible for storage! safety brake!) except when you pull back the hood you'll reveal a fur baby instead! Promising reviews: "This is a nice lightweight stroller for my 10-pound Pomeranian. It is not a heavy duty stroller but perfect for walking in my neighborhood. I can put her in it when she gets tired and she loves watching where we are going. It will be good for walks on vacation." —Beth"Folds and unfolds quite easily. The cargo basket is roomy. It has a front clasp instead of a zipper. And it has three large "screen windows, including both front and back. It keeps my dog cool during summer. It's sturdy and not at all top-heavy. Push handle is high enough that it fits push handle of most pet strollers are not tall enough to be comfortable for me." —MerleAnnePrice: $93.99+ (originally $143.99; available in two colors) A personalized dog collar with their name and your number that is much easier to see than a standard dog tag. Make sure you and your dog are protected in case the worst happens and they ever run out of your arms. Promising review: "This collar is so sturdy without being bulky. The name and phone number is very plain to see if Bailey should somehow get out of our house or yard. Between having had him chipped and this collar I feel confident that he would be found safe and I would be notified right away. So thanks, Chewy for another great product!" —MargaretPrice: $18.95 (available in sizes XS–L and five colors) A bag of Milk-Bone Pill Pouches if your doggo has a sniffer good enough to tell there is a sneaky pill hiding inside their fave treat. Like seriously how is it possible they can eat every bit of the peanut butter or cheese or wet food and manage to avoid that tiny pill?! This should help you actually get them to take their meds without you having to shove it down their throat so they are ready for the family road trip. Promising review: "These treats stay moist, so it's easy to wrap one around a pill. And they can be divided up depending on the size of the pill. My dogs like them. Good price." —Ann"Problem solved. Duffy has been offered his pills in every conceivable kind of treat, and has decided one after another that they aren't good enough to make him take his pills. When we tried these, he changed his mind. So far he doesn't care if there's a pill in it or not. Hope that lasts a long time." —PatriciaPrice: $4.49+ (originally $4.99+; available in multipacks and two flavors) Or a calming supplement for those times they need to take a ~chill pill~ but you don't wanna give them actual medicine. This is great when you have to take them to the vet, crowded venues, or places with loud noises, and you wanna make sure your pup doesn't get stressed. Promising review: "Truly shocked — it works! I have a one-and-a-half-year-old Golden Retriever/Irish Setter mix who is the sweetest girl imaginable, but she tends to be anxious most of the time. She thrives in calm, quiet environments and struggles with new experiences and loud noises. My partner and I have been training her alongside her one-year-old Golden sister, but her anxious tendencies have been hard to shake. We finally decided to try these hemp dog chews, and wow, they work! She's still a bit skittish, but she's noticeably more confident, playful, and even approaching things that used to terrify her. The once-dreaded poop disposal bin in our neighborhood? No longer a monster to cower from! I highly recommend these dog chews!" —BreonnaPrice: $4.97+ (available in five sizes and two flavors) Some pee pads with a special runoff guard to make sure absolutely no pee makes its way onto the hotel room floor because as far as they know there definitely wasn't a doggo in the room last night!! Promising review: "These potty pads work great!!! They are a good size and absorb great!! Totally recommend these!! I will buy these again!" —carmenPrice: $16.95+ (originally $23.49+; available in six quantities) An oatmeal and aloe shampoo to make sure they are squeaky clean cause endless errands and adventures can lead to a dirty, stinky pup. Plus this will help soothe any sensitivity or irritated skin. Promising review: "I have a pit bull/American Eskimo mix, and he was having some issues with dry skin and red blotchy rashes for the longest time. We couldn't figure out what was causing it, but we were desperate to find a solution. We were given this recommendation for dog shampoo and tried it once, and have never used anything else since. It's very creamy and lathers nicely, he doesn't try to lick it off like he did the other brands, and he actually gets excited for bath time now. He has had no more rashes, he smells great, and his fur feels smoother than ever! I absolutely love this product and bought the puppy one for my youngest fur baby, who is just about to turn a year old. She is a Pomeranian/pug, and it does wonders for her thick, long fur. 100% recommended!!" —KrissyPrice: $17.99+ (originally $18.99+, available in two sizes) A Furminator brush so they don't shed all over your friend's house because you want them to be invited back. Let's be honest, if they aren't invited, you aren't going, so let's be sure they aren't causing any problems. Promising review: "This just arrived in the mail and oh my goodness we are in LOVE! My pup is a mutt, mostly German shepherd, Australian shepherd, and husky, so you can imagine the hair on this one! I started brushing and I was absolutely AMAZED at the amount that came off, and how easy it was! Seriously, so easy, and he loved it SO much. It must have felt so good! He has an undercoat, and his fur is super shiny and soft. I was worried that it might pull and tug his hair, or not get all the way to the undercoat, and I was wrong! This doesn't pull or scratch, but it gets the job done! I absolutely recommend it to anyone, even if you don't think your dog is a shedder! Much easier than all of the other brushes I've used as well. I was not happy about the price tag, but the very first use paid for itself!" —LaurenPrice: $31.87+ (originally $37.49+, available in three sizes and three colors) A car booster seat to turn your doggo into the perfect passenger princess. There's a seatbelt path to make sure the seat is attached securely and a tether to attach to their collar. Plusss there's storage on the front and side to hold treats, toys, and whatever else they may need on their journey. Promising review: "This item worked out so great. I had a three-hour drive with my 16-year-old pug (who hates the car). The seat kept him safe and elevated enough that he could see out the windows. It is large enough and comfy enough for him to turn around and lay down. Bonus: he sheds terribly and when I removed the seat, no hair was on my car seats! Highly recommend. This was also the first time he has ever ridden in a car seat and he did great. Thanks, Chewy. My little dude will be riding in style from now on ;)" —LindaPrice: $49.99+ (available in two sizes and two colors) A waterproof fleece blanket you can bring to your friend's house who took a liiiittle more convincing to let you bring your pup over. This will be sure to protect their couch from any accidents (which of course your perfect angel could never!) but also from any fur your cutie may shed while you're there. Promising review: "These blankets are so soft and cute! I've gotten a green one and grey one for her. My puppy loves them. She had one accident on one of these blankets, and I was really impressed by how well it kept the mess off the carpet below. Now that she's potty trained, she still loves to nap on these blankets. The border has worn a bit, but that's entirely due to my teething puppy loving these blankets too much. Great product (but I don't think I've gotten a bad product from this brand yet)." —MicPrice: $19.99+ (originally $21.99+; available in five sizes and eight colors)
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Time Business News
The Perfect Gift Basket Delivered: Thoughtful Surprises for Every Occasion
Gift baskets are a wonderful way to express your thoughtfulness and appreciation. Whether it's for a birthday, holiday, or just to say thank you, a gift basket is the perfect way to surprise someone with something special. Today, you can even have these amazing baskets delivered straight to someone's door, making the whole experience even more fun and exciting. In this fun and easy-to-read guide, we'll talk all about why gift baskets are a great idea, how to pick the perfect one, and where to find the best options online especially on Dabble a super cool site with gift baskets for every occasion. A gift basket is a special collection of goodies all wrapped up in a basket or box. It might have: Yummy snacks Fun toys or games Cute items like mugs or candles Things to relax with like lotions or books Each basket is made for a certain event or person. And guess what? You can enjoy the convenience of sending a thoughtful gift without ever leaving your home. You can order one online and have it delivered! Everyone loves surprises, right? That's one reason gift baskets are so popular. But they're also awesome because: They show love and care. They're packed with things people actually enjoy. They look pretty and fun to open. They work for any age kids, teens, and grown-ups! When someone gets a gift basket, they feel super special. It's like getting a mini treasure chest full of joy. Birthdays are among the most popular occasions to send a gift basket delivered to their doorstep. A carefully selected birthday basket might include gourmet snacks, chocolate truffles, birthday candles, and a handwritten note. Personalized birthday baskets elevate the celebration, making the recipient feel extra special. A 'Get Well' gift basket offers more than just good wishes. It provides comfort, entertainment, and nourishment. These baskets often include herbal teas, cozy socks, soft blankets, soup mixes, books, and wellness products that help speed up recovery with warmth and care. Celebrate a growing family with a baby-themed gift basket filled with essentials like baby lotion, organic cotton onesies, teething rings, and even something special for the new mom like herbal teas and spa items. Corporate gift baskets are a classy way to say thank you, close deals, or appreciate your hardworking team. These often include luxury coffee blends, premium nuts, branded stationery, wine, or gourmet cheese assortments. They reinforce relationships and leave a lasting impression. During hard times, a soft, thoughtful touch goes a long way. A sympathy gift basket may include calming teas, gentle candles, soothing music, and heartfelt notes to offer comfort and express your condolences. From Christmas and Thanksgiving to Easter and Valentine's Day, themed baskets offer festive fun with a wide selection of goodies cookies, candies, seasonal décor, and more. If you want amazing, thoughtful, and fun gift baskets, check out Dabble This website is packed with cool options for every event and every person. Here's what makes Dabble Doll stand out: Every basket looks like it came from a fancy shop even if you're on a budget! They have options for moms, dads, kids, teachers, friends you name it. No more waiting forever. Dabble Doll ships fast, so your gift gets there on time. From self-care baskets to candy crates, their themes are fun and exciting. With just a few clicks, your gift basket is on its way. Super simple! And best of all? Dabble Doll baskets are full of heart. You're not just sending stuff you're sending joy . Want to send the perfect surprise? Here's how to do it: Do they love chocolate? Are they a coffee fan? Do they enjoy relaxing? Pick a basket that fits their vibe. Is it a birthday? A thank-you? A holiday? Choose a basket that goes with the event. A sweet little message means a lot. Write something kind or funny. Sites like Dabble make sure your gift gets there safely and looks great. Kids love surprises! Gift baskets for kids can include: Colorful candies Toys or art supplies Books or stickers Games or puzzles Perfect for birthdays or a 'just because' gift after a big test. You can even let your child help pick the items! Ordering online is easy. Here's a quick guide: Go to a trusted site like Dabble Browse through categories like 'Birthday,' 'Get Well,' or 'Self-Care.' Select a basket that matches your budget and the event perfectly. Add to cart and write a message. Enter the delivery address and checkout! Done! Your gift basket is on its way, ready to brighten their day! Want to create a basket yourself? You totally can! Here's how: A small basket or box Tissue paper or filler 4–5 fun or useful items A card or note Ribbon or wrap Place the filler in the basket. Arrange items nicely big in the back, small in front. Add your note. Wrap it all up with plastic or paper. Decorate with a bow or stickers. Now you've created your very own personalized DIY gift basket! Not really! Gift baskets come in many price ranges: Budget-friendly : Under $25 : Under $25 Mid-range : $30–$60 : $30–$60 Luxury: $100 and up No matter your budget, you can find something nice especially at Dabble where quality meets affordability. Let's sum it up! Why choose Dabble Doll? High-quality, handpicked items Creative themes and beautiful designs Fast and safe delivery Affordable prices for every budget Made to make people smile No wonder so many people trust them for gift-giving. Sometimes the best gifts are the ones that come for no reason at all. A random gift basket can: Make someone smile after a rough day Show you're thinking about them Be a fun surprise in the middle of a boring week You don't have to wait for a special occasion to make someone feel valued. Whether you want to say 'Happy Birthday,' 'Thank You,' or just 'I Care,' a gift basket is the perfect way to do it. It's simple, thoughtful, and always appreciated. And if you want beautiful, themed, and budget-friendly gift baskets, there's no better place than Dabble From quick delivery to charming designs, they help you send love in a basket any day, any time. So go ahead, brighten someone's day with the perfect gift basket delivered with heart. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Epoch Times
2 days ago
- Epoch Times
Behold the Beauty: A Sublime Sunrise and a Tragedy
BOURNEMOUTH, England—British artist John Brett (1831–1902) painted the striking sunrise unfolding before him just off the Isle of Anglesey in north Wales on Christmas day, 1866. More than 30 years later, in 1898, Brett married that Anglesey sunrise of reds, pinks, and purples with a dark stormy sea, which he had painted in the summer of 1867, and created the painting 'Christmas Morning 1866.' The tremendous beauty and power of the dazzling sunrise that Brett set against the violent sea almost overshadows the tragic subject of the painting: the sinking of SS London.
