The Duffy Story

OK, have you seen Duffy The Bear?  Do you even know what I'm talking about?  Honestly, I didn't pay much attention to him or wondered about him until I recently saw a post about him and thought, I better find out who this mysterious bear is. 

The story is so cute, it's made me think we should have one of these bears or better yet, one of our plush Mickeys should have one of these bears.

He was briefly sold and created for the Once Upon a Toy shop at Disney World in 2002 and became more popular after he was given a 'storyline' and name by the Oriental Land executives.  He became popular at Tokyo DisneySea Park, and now seems to be a continual part of the American Disney Parks. 

The original story is that Mickey was at Disney World holding on to his bear and wishing he could share his experiences with someone.  Tinkerbell flew by sprinkling pixie dust on Duffy.  Mickey gave him a big squeeze and he came to life. 

One of the coolest things that I didn't even realize is that a Mickey shape appeared on Duffy's face and feet.  Yep...another hidden Mickey.  LOVE IT!

I think the current story is that Minnie created Duffy for Mickey so he would have a friend as he made a long voyage out at sea.  Either way, I think it's so cute that Mickey has his friend.  Just as our kids and probably yours too, carry around a plush friend or princess who keeps them company all the time, now Mickey Mouse has a forever friend to share in his experiences at the parks too.