Are you currently caring for a family member or spouse? Drop by the cafe to share your insights with Jackie, Jeff, and friends.

  As our Cafe friends streamed in for their morning wake-me-up, they were greeted by a little stuffed bunny sitting on the counter, with his floppy ears dancing as he sang an upbeat tune "I've Got to Hop". 

Knowingly, I watched our friends' reactions switch from confused surprise to sunny smiles; because those had been my exact reactions four weeks ago when my dearest friend brought him to me after my nose surgery. 

She knew how sad I was with my beet red nose full of stitches and brought the perfect companion to put a smile on my face, a giggle in my voice, and warm comfort to my heart.

As I told our friends the story of the dancing bunny, Patti said: "He brings back loving memories of my favorite stuffed animal Spot, the silliest-looking puppy on the planet.  But Spot was there for me through measles and mumps and every sad time."

Jane: "That was exactly how I felt about Fluffy.  I would sit on the couch stroking this furry white stuffed kitten and feel warm and safe no matter what."

Jeff:  "That's probably how people with Alzheimer's feel about their stuffed animal or doll.  It's a real source of calm comfort for many of them."

As our Cafe friends continued reminiscing about their "comfort companions", it struck me that bringing a stuffed animal to a loved one for them to see as they walk into their room or stroke when they are feeling lonely might just be a very special way to spread Summertime Smiles.  Caringly, Jackie, Jeff & Friends