Dear "Jigidiers",
To me, and the hundreds who enjoy Hilda's adventures, she represents beauty, fun, inclusiveness, innocence, kindness and the love of life. She brings a little joy and a smile to our day.
I correspond privately with a number of those who follow her puzzles and know that the majority are like me, "getting on" in years, and are housebound due to medical conditions or a variety of other reasons. Hilda brings a bit of fleeting relief from the real world.
Please know that I don't post Hilda, because she is very slightly overweight, or to ridicule those who may be a little plump, or to deride or degrade anybody. I post her puzzles because they show an adventurous and courageous spirit, who is alone, who loves animals and nature, and who is quite beautiful both inside and out.
A kind wish, Paddy.