Critters are for adults!

In my last entry I mentioned that Ellie the Elephant was heading to Orlando to Ellie the newborn. Well, as I've mentioned in previous stories, the critters seem to be better received by adults and children older than 8. I think it's the "tongue in cheek" character of each of the critters. They all have a little humor and imperfection about them which adds to their personalities. Babies and small children just want a cuddle toy or they want to throw stuffed animals around.

The critters were originally designed as humorous, adult cartoon characters. As I've created, I've noticed that young boys have appreciated them also. My grandsons liked the "dudes" I made with camo pants and sports attire. I think they could enjoy them without feeling like they were "dolls" - They enjoyed the personalities and considered them friends.

So when I heard that my friend who adopted Ellie the Elephant and her friends Mouse and Frog, I was not surprised to hear that Ellie's mom and grandma loved them, but the little kids were underwhelmed. "No worries", I said. "Just put them on a shelf until they're old enough, or let the adults enjoy them."