Many years ago, when I was seven and living in Bundaberg, I realised that I was a neglected child who did not own a teddy bear.
My brother did.
One of those collectible real leather koalas that was probably given to him when we arrived in Australia.
He would have been 21 months and worthy of a toy but the 3 month old me wouldn't have appreciated it.
Fast track to those days in Bundaberg when I realised my lack.
I nagged my poor Mum for one. She couldn't afford it but ended up finding me a hand made penguin.
About ten inches tall, black and white with yellow felt feet and beak.
I'm not sure where Pengy is now but he gave me heaps of happiness, mostly just twirling him on his wings.
I do know that his beak and feet were stretched to pieces but he still was strong enough to spend time with my children and give them love.
That's why I know that, despite the fact that these are not fashionable softies, they should make someone happy.
Twirling between their wings and gazing gently into their eyes.