22^nd March to 28^th August 2020

Friends of ours from where we live were repatriated to Canada against their wishes at the beginning of Covid-19 restrictions.  It all happened in a rush, and their daughter was sad that she had to leave her Big Bear behind to sit on his own in the apartment for an unknown period.  I suggested that Emilka babysat for him and it was love at first sight; he was immediately part of our family.

He was with Emilka in bed most of the time, but he did do some relaxing on the balcony, some home schooling with her, revising for exams, and even enjoyed a Guinness with Steve.  She really enjoyed cuddling him at night as he was so comforting to feel.  Five months later, our friends returned to Colombo, and with fourteen days of quarantine counting down, Emilka knew that every sleep was a sleep closer to Big Bear going back to his owner.

She enjoyed the last few days of his company and with a brave face we took him back to his beloved owner.  She was very happy and gave Big Bear a huge squeeze on welcoming him back.  I think Emilka did a good job of looking after him and we all have lovely memories of him living with us. Emilka is a very good plush toy babysitter; I would recommend her services to anyone!

Rennie