~Cordelia's Gator~

While some kids have blankies and lovies, my kids have animals.  If you've ever been around our house at naptime or bedtime you know just how important Tigger is for Alec, or Mortimer the Monkey is for Elyssa.  (In fact Alec toted Tigger along to preschool for weeks until he decided that getting dropped off isn't the end of the world... and well, if you've been around Lyssa AT ALL you've probably become acquainted with Mortimer.  Both animals have been around A LONG TIME.)

Back in July when I was pregnant, Alec and Elyssa were telling me about the importance of their animals while getting ready for bed.  I asked them what animal Cordy should have, to which Alec declaired, "An Alligator named George!"

Prior that evening we watched "The Happiest Millionaire," the movie from which Cordelia's name originates.  In the movie the family has a large mansion with a Conservatory Room full of alligators that they keep as family pets.  The largest one is named George.  I laughed at the brilliance of Alec's idea.  An Alligator!  Perfect!  A few weeks later while walking by the Zoo gift shop Alec spotted our Gator, George.  The kids were soooo excited to buy it and give it to Sister Cordy after she was born.  Though she had very little interest in George in the beginning, she has quickly grown fond of her soft green fellow and is frequently found clutching him close in her sleep or rubbing kisses on his snout.

So yes, my sweet baby Cordy's animal is an Alligator.  Named George.

May he be well-loved and last many years to come!  

(unlike Elyssa's sad little sheep from days gone by...)