Teddy hunt

People are doing some very fun things to keep up community connection, like placing teddy bears in their windows for kids to spot as they take daily walks.

They're putting up other creatures as well, like this little rabbit my mate across the road propped up in his window.

We have a proliferation of toy creatures in our neighbourhood and I think it's great.

On our walk yesterday, my walking buddy (two metre separation) Pam and I made it our mission to spot the teddy bears and toys in the windows and we were so entertained by what we saw. One rather large fellow was clinging to the window, half in and half out, with a sign around his neck saying 'Get me out of here! I want COVID 19 to go away so I can go have a picnic!' I know how he feels.

Toys of all different shapes and sizes were displayed in windows, and kids were taking note, pulling at Mum's hands to get over and have a closer look, pointing and laughing.

Such a simple thing and yet it has brought a lot of fun at a time when a laugh is needed most.

Pam and I laughed too, allowing ourselves, for about an hour, to be kids, scanning the houses along the street for teddy bears, eagerly pointing out when we found one, telling those neighbours how cool we thought they were, being joined by others who gathered to see what was going on. (I've noticed people are looking for anything distracting - even the garbage trucks rolling down the street on Monday attracted attention). 

It doesn't take much to make a difference right now. As Pam and I walk along, we speak to, our wave to, people we pass. I've never seen these people before and yet we all have a bond of 'we're in this together so let's acknowledge that with a gesture, a smile, a word or two, a bit of a laugh.'  It's not hard to do and it feels good.

As for the teddy bears, well there appear to be more popping out every day and not only bears but often whatever people have at hand: toy rabbits, dragons, and other cuddly creatures.

​That in itself is a game, occupies some time: what is that in the window?   

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