It's interesting how life works. When I designed the first embroiderable animal in 2006, I could not have dreamed up the adventures my Embroider Buddy® stuffed animals and I would take.

Earlier this year, Deborah Jones and I travelled to England to attend the P&P in Birmingham. I was honoured to meet so many interesting and talented embroiderers.

It was at this event that I introduced the ever-popular chap Hedley Hedgehog. With so much royal treatment it was hard to get Hedley to leave the UK with me!

My most recent travel adventure was to Australia to attend Echidnas Sewing Product events. Deborah Jones ran several workshops embroidering buddies on Brother machines.

I met hundreds of skilled and enthusiastic embroiderers. They had fun with the Buddies and I was thrilled to be part of all of the events. I have to tell you that I was delighted that all the buddies they embroidered were donated to the Ronald McDonald House and will give love and comfort to children and families who are ill and away from home.

A notable highlight of my trip Down Under was introducing Kerry Kangaroo and her baby Joey. Kerry received a very welcoming “G’Day” from all.

Gary Walker, his staff and family could not have been more hospitable and witty. They were a joy to be with and I fell in love with the Aussie sense of humour! I found out that I'm a Mollydooker. I am grateful that I had the time to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Australia that included: Gold Coast sunsets, sugar fine sand beach, crumb fish, caramel slices, Anzac biscuits, Australian Shiraz, Surfers Paradise, Lamingtons, creaming soda, Fruit Tingles, flat white coffee and so much more.more.

A special shout out to Gary's brother Brett who gave me a fascinating tutorial on Australia desserts. Eh Brett, is copha really a food group in Australia?

My Embroider Buddy® products and I are planning more international visits in 2016. Watch this space for our next destination. Our adventures have only just begun!