“That is so cool. Thanks for the prezzies, Daddy.”
“You’re welcome, but those aren’t really prezzies. Those are travel necessities. The prezzies I’ve got to wrap for the birthday boy to open tomorrow. For now, let’s start packing.”
“Daddy, what toys can I bring?”
“Well, I’d say anything you can fit in this,” he handed me another package.
“It’s a cute duffel bag.”
“Yes, for travel toys. I figured then Bun-Bun and Daddy Bear would fit together. Maybe tubby toys for the hotel at the beach, possibly a few of your plastic animals. Why don’t you take it into the playroom and decide what to bring while Daddy finishes packing our clothes.”
I leaned up and kissed him. “Thank you, Daddy. You always think of me.”
“Of course I do, you’re the love of my life.”
Swoon.
Chapter Twelve
Crispin
“Welcome to Build-A-Bear Workshop, where new friends are made every day!” The sales associate greeted us as we stepped inside. “Are you looking for something specific today?”
“Hello, it’s Beck’s first time here and it’s his birthday today,” I told her.
“Happy birthday and welcome in. Take a look around and when you find the bear you want, I’ll meet you over at the machine where we’ll bring it to life.”
“Daddy, this is so exciting!” My boy wiggled beside me.
“Well, birthday boy, go pick your new bear. In fact, why don’t you pick two.”
“Two? Really? Is there enough on my gift card for that?”
Sweet, sweet, Beck. “I’m sure we’re fine, sweetheart.”
“Daddy, look at the pretty purple bunny. I bet they’ll be Bun-Bun’s new best friend.”
“I think that’s a wonderful choice, love. Who’s next?”
“Umm.” Beck walked back and forth along the wall, stopping now and again before making his final choice. “This one.”
“Rainbow clouds Frog, another great choice. Let’s get them filled and pick out new clothes.”
“Are you ready, Beck?” I was thrilled that she remembered his name. Beck bobbed his head and she continued. “This is the heart ceremony. For each of your bears I’m going to hand you a heart. You kiss it and make a wish then we put it inside as we fill them. Are you ready?”
“Yes.” My boy was over the moon and lacked the ability to stand still. She handed him the first heart, and he closed his eyes then kissed it and gave it back to her. Intently he watched as she filled his new stuffie.
“Here’s the second one.” He did the same then handed it back. “Why don’t you shop around while I finish with your bears, and I’ll meet you up front at the register whenever you’re ready.”
“Okay, thank you.” I followed Beck as he walked each aisle, carefully choosing the right outfits and accessories for both bears. “OMG, Daddy, look, it’s a tiny tutu. Rainbow frog has to have it. Is that alright?”
“You are the birthday boy so anything you choose today is more than alright.” Enough said, prompting him to pick the cutest outfits and toys for both.
“I’m so excited for them to meet Bun-Bun and Daddy Bear.”
How had I never done this with any boy before? Oh, I know why, because they didn’t deserve it, but Beck did. This was an amazing treat, and one I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I foresaw many of these stuffies filling the shelves in my sweet boy’s playroom over the coming years.
“Wow, what great outfits and accessories you picked out for your bears, Beck. Now comes the all-important part—what do you want to name them.” He thought so hard I was afraid he’d hurt himself. “Not to worry, I’ll leave that line blank on the certificates and you can fill it in later. Will that work?”
