I thought it was time for a fun post since the last few have been quite serious. I was having a conversation with a friend last night and the subject of teddy bear’s came up. I happen to be proud of the fact that as a 42-year-old woman I still sleep with a teddy bear. Some laugh and other’s judge but what matters to me is the comfort that little bear gives.
I’ve been sleeping with stuffed animals since I can remember. I’ve had a few favorites over the years, most recently is my guy Chuck. Chuck was given to me by my son and a very good friend of ours. I was having a bad day, feeling under the weather and they came back from Six Flags with it as a gift for me. I really needed the comfort that bear provided me that day and he has become a part of my life. No matter where I am sleeping he is with me. I’ve taken him on vacation, to my mom’s and even to the hospital when I had surgery. A year ago I took him to an overnight retreat. I was absolutely fine with the fact I would be sleeping on a cot in front of 50 strangers cuddling my bear, however my sis was not. When I pulled him out of my bag she shot me a look! I quickly said to her “do not judge me”, she smiled and laughed and I was content in knowing that when bedtime came I would be secure. I will admit at times I go a little overboard, like purchasing him clothing, or the cutest pair of scrubs when we were in the hospital, but as long as I feel comforted that’s what is important.

I’m sure we can all look back on times in our lives when we needed comfort. And if we look back to our childhood, other than our parents where did we turn? I bet during the night in a storm you reached out for your teddy bear just as I did. Or maybe it was a doll or a blanket, either way it was an object that provided you with a secure feeling.

Sometimes our friends or family are not able to physically be there for us in a time of need and not all of us have pets that we can cuddle. Comfort food can be harmful to our health so the second best thing is a teddy bear. I’m not saying you have to go out and purchase a stuffed animal today, I just want to reassure any of you out there that still has yours nearby to embrace it without being embarrassed. Take the time to hug it and love it because it will always be there for you 100%.
I invite you to reply with a pic of your teddy bear and share your comfort with others!
Kimberly
Courageous Butterfly
3/28/12