Photo Story: We Go Way Back
A look at the lasting, endearing connections formed between young adults and their transitional objects
Photo story by Morgan Merriam
For many of us, comfort at a young age is found in the form of a fuzzy bear, handmade blanket, or even a repurposed dog toy. Transitional objects are the items we select in childhood to accompany us through the transition from total dependence to eventual self-sufficiency. In these objects, we often find not only a friend but also a keepsake containing memories of early childhood and the people who made us feel safe.
Photo captions
Thalia & Spots— Klipsun Managing Editor Thalia Coulter is pictured with her stuffie, Spots, on March 1, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. “When I went to college, I brought Spots with me … he’s witnessed many dorm parties from his perch on my twin XL,” she said. // Photo courtesy of Thalia Coulter
Sophie, Muffin & Polar Bear— Whatcom Community College student Sophie Hill is pictured with her stuffed animals, Polar Bear (left) and Muffin (right), on Feb. 26, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. “They’ve been with me throughout my entire life; I used to sleep with one in each arm as a kid,” she said. // Photo by Morgan Merriam
Madi & Bud— Western Washington University student Madi Tessem is pictured with her stuffie, Bud, on March 12, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. “I sleep with him every night, take him on vacations with me and even have him sitting with me on planes so that I can sleep,” she said. // Photo courtesy of Madi Tessem
Andrew & Doggy— Klipsun writer Andrew Foster is pictured with his keepsake, Doggy, on March 4, 2024 in Bellingham, Wash. “I remember leaving PetSmart with my family when I was probably five and seeing a basket of these mint green dog toys… I begged my parents to get me one,” he said. // Photo courtesy of Andrew Foster
Emma & Lammy— Western student Emma Eickerman is pictured with her stuffie, Lammy, on March 14, 2024, in Bellingham, Wash. Transitional objects are “by extension, any person or thing that provides security, emotional well-being and a symbolic connection with a valued other,” according to the American Psychological Association. // Photo courtesy of Emma Eickerman