beary beary cute

["Devine, James" <jdevine@xxxxxxx>]

In PARADE magazine, a trashy supplement to many U.S. Sunday newspapers, we
find an ad that says:

"Looking For A Few Good Bears!

"A Hamilton Collection exclusive

"Meticulously handcrafted and hand-painted

"Accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity

"Semper Fi ... Always Faithful

"From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli, when our honor needs
defending, America calls on the United States Marines! Now show off your
pride in our country's noble guardians of freedom with this warmheated
tribute to the Corps!

"Presenting 'Dress Blues,' a proud and courageous sentinel who's 'always
faithful'! "

yes, it's a teddy bear in a Marine Corps dress uniform. And it's only $19.95
(plus $3.95 for shipping and handling)!

I'm hiding this from my son (age 11 1/2), who will probably want the damn
thing.

Jim D.