When I was five years old, I was an only child living with my parents. Though my family was chaotic and busy, they often made time for fun activities. On one of my “Daddy, Daughter Days”, as we used to call it, we went to a bowling alley. I vividly remember the bright neon lights, the crashing of bowling pins, and the colorful floor. Despite all of these exuberating but slightly overwhelming elements, little me was drawn to one thing: the claw machine. My dad instantly realized my fixation on the large machine and began inserting money. After a few tries, a brown Beanie Baby horse was dropped from the claw. Every inch of my little body was filled with joy; I immediately became attached. Later, the new, soft little horse would be known as “Mr. Snuggles”. Continuing through my childhood, I would carry him everywhere. While I slept, he would sit on my neck, snuggling.  As I aged, so did he. I slowly stopped taking him places. He no longer slept on my neck, and his soft fur became rough and matted. Although I matured and stopped caring as much about him, he still sits on my bed and stays within my heart. Whenever I look back on Mr. Snuggles, I am reminded of love, family, and safety. Mr. Snuggles is one of my most important objects because of the memories it holds, the comfort it brings me, and the love it was gifted from. I believe everyone should have an object like this whether it be jewelry, or even food, since it makes a person feel comfortable and highlights their values. 

– IC

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more