Archive for July, 2009
For many years I had a strong aversion to zoos. Every time I went to see a new exhibit, I would feel sorry for the animals stuck in cages. Luckily, the zoo in my town is known for being progressive. Each animal’s natural habitat is recreated with a startling degree of accuracy. As such, I began taking my 3-year-old son to check out the wildlife. He grew especially fond of the Daisy the black bear.
Trips to the zoo can be expensive and time-consuming, so I formulated a plan that would appease my son when he wanted to “go see Daisy.” I looked online for custom teddy bears and came upon a black bear that bore a remarkable resemblance to Daisy. My son loved the gift, but he still pesters me about going to the zoo to see the penguins.
Though it’s sometimes hard to believe, we all were young once. Even now, most of us can revisit the whimsical days of childhood – if only for a moment – by picking up the relics of those simpler times. For instance, blowing the dust from the top of an old board game can bring back a flurry of memories. The same can be said for exploring the old family shed and seeking out a trusty toy truck.
For many, the most powerful connection to childhood is embodied by a favorite stuffed animal. As kids learn to socialize, they convey human thoughts and emotions to these constant companions. For a fleeting moment in time, these playthings and their owners are practically inseparable. It’s nice to know that such a link still exists whenever one feels like waxing nostalgic.