I have a new favorite mascot and I have to tell you, he has totally stolen my heart.
Ok, maybe I am not supposed to have a favorite, just like in theory parents are not supposed to have a favorite child (but come on, we know they do!), but it’s human nature to have favorites… and ironically this mascot came into my personal universe while I was with 2 members of my favorite Space Shuttle Crew (something else as a instructor at NASA I wasn’t supposed to have – a favorite crew!)
I’ve been following Staley the Chicago Bears mascot on social media for quite some time and have been amused and delighted by his antics and personality. He’s just so spunky and spirited! I also love that he’s frequently with his furry friends from various teams which I think is just wonderful. I love the camaraderie! (Oh you should follow him too! He’s on Instagram as @therealstaley)
When I was planning this year’s golf outing I was considering some “different” things to bring to the event for fun and the thought crossed my mind – how fun would it be to have Staley at our event? So I reached out to Staley to see if this was a possibility and imagine my joy and delight when he said YES! I literally jumped for joy.
On the day of the outing, as you might imagine, it was quite the busy day for me, but I was watching the clock for when Staley would arrive. I kept eyeing the parking lot and then I saw his van pull in! I raced out to greet them. (Even the van is awesome!)
Staley arrived and I was giddy as a school girl… hey, I didn’t claim I was going to be adult about this. Ha! I had to get a photo with him before sharing him with everyone else.
Staley came in and immediately owned the room. He was so personable absolutely every person in the room was drawn to him. He danced (that bear can move!), he hugged, he signed autographs, he gave shoulder rubs…. This Bear does it ALL!
When our students stepped up to talk to the crowd, my heart was so full from the students sharing about their experiences but also from the fact that Staley sat down and listened intently to all they had to say. And cheered for them when they finished. So kind!
Astronauts Mike Foreman and Greg “Box” Johnson had a blast interacting with Staley and they also thought he was out of this world!
I’ve met a lot of mascots but I’ve never been as impressed with any other as much as I was with Staley. I am totally in love with him!
I couldn’t tell you the last time I’ve been to a Chicago Bears game but I can promise you that because of Staley I am looking to determine what game I can get to this season.
Bear Down!
**I said yes
