My computer tower sits on my desk and there is a plushie astride it that represents a child alter. When we took our first steps towards a loving, rather than adversarial relationship, I would talk to the plushie because it was easier to have an external place to focus on. She liked the idea because the plushie gave her a 'body' that was 100% hers - plus it is a fierce mountain lion cub and she likes that too.

Anyway, we're often on the computer and I can look up and see 'her'. She asks to be petted quite a lot; in fact I never sit down at the computer without a rub behind the ears. We both know that the plushie is not her - but it gives us some tradition and a feeling of structure. The scratch behind the ears always grounds both of us. Folded up underneath her is her favorite shirt I bought her and within easy reach is her favorite book, which I read to her often. It is 'The Monster at the end of this Book' starring lovable, furry old Grover (from Sesame Street).

The plushie is going to be twenty-four years old next month, but she still looks six years old.