Our eight-pound Chihuahua has proudly held the title of our favorite (and only) child for more than three years. Even though Burger is about to face some competition in May, there’s no doubt he’s deeply loved — in a slightly eccentric way. He already appears in three separate portraits on the photo wall of the third bedroom that will become the nursery:
Thanks to a bit of foresight, a generous giveaway sponsor, and our affection for all things Burger, the future nursery is gaining one more tribute to the tiniest Petersik. Introducing Burger the Zoonie:
To explain: you might remember a fun giveaway from Eleni Creative, makers of custom felt mobiles and stuffed animals called Zoonies. Sherry and I were smitten by their work — I even used the word “adorable.” Their creations are thoughtfully made and charming. Case in point: the custom “flying elephant” mobile our giveaway winner received, which turned out beautifully:
After the giveaway I secretly asked Eleni’s felt artist, Helen, if she could create a custom piece modeled after our beloved Chihuahua as a surprise for Sherry. Instead of laughing, she graciously offered to make it as a thank-you and even sent a playful sketch of our Zoonified pup for approval before starting the felting process:
Two months later, after our second ultrasound appointment, I handed Sherry a wrapped present as we left the doctor’s office. We were both elated — the scan had confirmed the baby is healthy and active — so it felt like the perfect moment to celebrate with a small token that said, “this is really happening.”
That’s how I gave Sherry our baby’s first stuffed animal, which just happens to be modeled after our favorite Chihuahua.
Sherry loved it — really loved it. Her reaction was enthusiastic: jumping, shouting, pure joy. The baby (the “bean”) may not appreciate its felted sibling for a while, and Burger himself is still unsure what to make of the new plush double, but we like to think we’ve already set the stage for a lifelong friendship. Maybe both will eventually share the title of favorite child.
What about you? Have your pets inspired any home décor projects? Do you display framed photos or silhouettes of your dog or cat, personalize pillows with their image, or keep a ceramic breed replica on a mantel? We’d love to hear how your four-legged family members are celebrated at home.