Of course I had favorites. But I did not want THEM to know that. When I was 7 years old, I devised a just and fair system to prove to them (and to myself) just how much I cared for all of them.
The rock-hard panda bear was not too appealing to snuggle with; the scratchy dress of the kangaroo was also a drawback; and the duck that looked a cross between a bear and a frog...but I would not let them know my secret preferences. No, the Snoopies meant no more to me than the ugly day-glo, evil-faced clown. To prove my honor, I drew up several pages of lists.
I methodically scheduled their visits to my bed. Monday night, all turtles, bears and birds. Tuesdays: elephants, Snoopies and ducks. I listed the name and type of each animal and made sure they each had loving contact with me as they rotated their turns.
I even designated a family night where all the animals could snuggle together--no divisions based on species. The whole group got one night together in my bed--Thursday nights.
After meticulously setting them up every Thursday night, I would always notice there was no room for me. If I got in the bed, the whole turtle or bear section would surely tumble to the floor. Showing my kindness and deference to their comfort, I slept on the floor.
