I was so please with my crafty creation: a soft, stuffed frog; approximately 10cm in length; black printed fabric dotted with green flowers; buttons for eyes.

It was produced at home with great diligence. The pattern was taken from a children's craft book. Its instructions directed one to fill the frog with rice. This idea seemed alien to me - quite a ridiculous concept, in fact. Cotton wool appeared to be a more sensible choice.

The true test of its success was to exhibit to class mates at school. They did seem impressed. It was passed from hand to hand, each examining it with wonder. I noticed one boy in particular behind with desire for that object.

By the end of the day, my little frog had vanished... It had been STOLEN!... I had my suspicions....