Big Raffe and Tiger

When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real. It doesn't happen all at once. You become. It takes a long time. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby.

~Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit

I'd like you to meet Big Raffe and Tiger.

Today I was picking up the front room, and for the hundredth time, I scooped up Tiger who was squished under the armoire and was taking him back to find his place where he belongs on Christopher's bed. With full hands, I accidentally tossed him into the shoe basket. Quickly I scooped him back up and laid him down on the bed, where he would wait for Christopher to return home from school. He looked so cute laying there.
In a silly moment, I realized just how important these two animals are in this household. Nate's stuffed love is Big Raffe. Others have joined the mix, but none are as endearing as these two.

Bad dream? Big Raffe and Tiger will comfort in the night.
Getting a shot? Big Raffe and Tiger will happily go to the doctor's office.
Going camping? Big Raffe and Tiger love their time in the tent.
Road trip? Big Raffe and Tiger love a car ride.
Needing a snuggle? Big Raffe and Tiger are always there.

Thanks for all the love, guys.