I saw this strange scene at the hospital today. There are usually fun toys for the kids at the reception desk. These toys are supposed to make their visits to the hospital a little less traumatic.
Today, I found these Beanie Babies. I remembered when there was such a craze for them...so much so that people decided that they were too valuable to be handled or played with. These little guys were encased in plastic boxes to "protect" them. I certainly hope that now that they are no longer so valuable, they will get dirty, haggered and loved in the arms of a child.
I guess that's why this green bear was try to break out of his "shell".

I wanted to add a second note today which I hope is not cheating.
I visited a different hospital today, one where I used to spend a few months each year during residency. I had to opportunity to see a few old friends which warmed my heart. Sometimes too much time passes and when you see old friends, you realize how much you miss them.
I have one photo from this morning's visit: http://www.pbase.com/jenfu/image/41520160/medium
This is Donna, one of the warmest people I know. She offers the same smile and gentle word to patients, co-workers, and staff alike...I thank her for that.