Rags & Captain Bulldog: Two Plushie Pillars of Strength

In a world full of chaos, sometimes comfort comes in the softest forms for me, that’s Rags and Captain Bulldog. Rags has been with me since Christmas 2012, a heartfelt gift from one of my support workers.

He wasn’t just a plush; he became my ward companion. He sat with me during the darkest nights, through panic attacks, sadness, and uncertainty. And even now, as his fur grows tired and his stitches tell stories of love and wear, I adore him endlessly. He may not be as sprightly as he once was, but he still means the world to me. Rags is part of my heart.

The original Captain Bulldog went to heaven alongside my grandad. Years later, Captain Bulldog “Junior” found his way back into my life. A new companion, for a new chapter. Never a replacement. In my heart, Rags and Captain are equals. Each holds a unique, irreplaceable place in my story.

Captain arrived when I needed a different kind of strength. But the bond I share with Rags? That’s eternal.

They’ve both been there when the world felt too loud, too heavy. They’ve made me smile, made me feel safe, and reminded me that love doesn’t fade it deepens.

Could I ever choose a favourite? Never.

Rags and Captain Bulldog: They’re side by side, forever. 💛🐾

From Screen to Reality

Hello lovely people. 😊

I was having a little scroll through some of my older content (as you do on a quiet afternoon), and I stumbled across this sweet video, one I’d almost forgotten about. It gave me such a warm feeling, I just had to share it again with you all!

So, here’s a little something to brighten up your day…

✨ From screen to reality… ✨

This is my original Rags’ teapot keyring brought to life.

💚💚💚

What started as a little doodle on my iPad became a real-life accessory, tangible, tiny, and full of character. I still remember how excited I was when the first batch arrived, seeing my drawing transformed into a little wooden keyring that jingled just right.

This green version features Rags’ home. The whimsical teapot he lives in, and it’s also available in a pink ‘Patches’ variant. Both designs hold a special place in my heart.

If you’re into quirky accessories or just love a good character story, these keyrings are a little piece of that creative journey.

Signing Off,

Daisy-May

Welcome

Welcome to DaisyMayDraws: Behind-the-Scenes Blog

Hello and welcome,

This blog is a little window into the world of DaisyMayDraws, the place where creativity, recovery, and imagination come together.

Here, I’ll be sharing the behind-the-scenes of my artistic journey, from the joyful highs to the more challenging lows. Whether it’s sketches of my character Rags, personal reflections, or updates on what I’m working on, this space is all about honesty, growth, and creativity in progress.

Ever since I was small, I dreamed of writing and illustrating my own books. I would scribble characters in the margins of notebooks, create wild storylines in my head, and imagine a future where I was a “real” author and illustrator. But, like many dreams, life pulled me in a different direction.

I was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 21 after years of struggling with depression and psychosis. For a long time, it felt like I’d lost myself and that childhood dream felt impossibly far away.

But art found its way back into my life when I needed it most. After a hospital stay and a powerful experience with art psychotherapy, I started drawing again. Tentatively at first. Then more often. Then with purpose.

Right now, I work in hospitality and I am retraining toward a new career. Life’s not always easy, and I still deal with anxiety and low days, but I’ve come such a long way and I’m proud of that.

What to expect here:

This blog is going to be a mix of things — updates on my artwork and Rags’ adventures, photos from Captain Bulldog, personal reflections on mental health and recovery, behind-the-scenes peeks at my creative process, and the occasional ramble from me when I’ve had too much tea and need to spill some thoughts onto a page.

If you’re someone who’s navigating your own mental health journey, chasing a creative dream (even when it feels impossible), or just love a good doodle and a bit of honesty you’re in the right place.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I’m so excited to share this space with you.

Signing Off,

Daisy-May