Candy Hearts and Paper Flowers

"Raggedy Ann and Books" from Raggedy Andy Stories (1920) by Johnny Gruelle


Coinciding with Christmas Eve, December 24th marks the birth date of Johnny Gruelle, born in 1880, known primarily as the creator of Raggedy Ann, first published in 1918.

I find something very charming about the simple, old-fashioned rag doll. Unlike ceramic dolls of the era, rag dolls were made for play, to get tossed around, to get dirty. They weren't put up on a shelf for display, touched only for dusting. And unlike later mass produced dolls, the humble handcrafted doll was unique, and not in a faddish "cabbage patch" way.

Now, fancy high tech gifts can be useful, and elite expensive treats are enviable, but sometimes the simple things are the most memorable and lasting presents of them all.

"Flying with the kite" from Raggedy Ann Stories (1918) by Johnny Gruelle

So, let's be thankful for the gifts which we have and will receive. Let's wish that others will find happiness in that which they shall receive. :-)

Here are some more Raggedy Ann and Andy images:

"Santa" from Raggedy Andy Stories (1920) by Johnny Gruelle

"They threw themselves down the stairs" from Raggedy Andy Stories (1920) by Johnny Gruelle

"Raggedy Ann and her sisters" from Raggedy Ann Stories (1918) by Johnny Gruelle

"Dripping dry" from Raggedy Ann Stories (1918) by Johnny Gruelle

"Bandaged up" from Raggedy Andy Stories (1920) by Johnny Gruelle

And here are some vids:

The Enchanted Square (1947)

"Rag Dolly" from Raggedy Ann & Andy: A Musical Adventure (1977)

Snowden Raggedy Ann & Andy Holiday Show (1998), featuring Ekaterina Gordeeva

"Candy Hearts and Paper Flowers" from Raggedy Ann & Andy: A Musical Adventure (1977)

Enjoy!!!