Cute Little Companion

When Hippo is traveling or just playing tourist around town, he likes to bring along his stuffed hippopotamus, Tiny.

Tiny is very comforting. He is also a good model to pose in pictures while Hippo documents his travels. Sometimes he seems to take on a life of his own.

Tiny enjoys all the exciting things that Hippo shows him. And Hippo gets more adventurous when he has Tiny to entertain.

It's a little embarrassing when Hippo goes through a security check and has to reveal the stuffed animal in his backpack. But the screeners usually just smile and let him through.

Orphanage

Hippo often wonders about these brightly lit booths he sees in airports and welcome centers. They seem to be mechanical orphanages with a lever and claw so that visitors can choose an animal to adopt.

Those animals look so cute and lonely. Hippo would like to take one home but it's so hard to choose. Maybe he should take them all! Unfortunately, with his lack of pockets, Hippo has no quarters.

Animal statuary

Hippo loves meeting new friends and is especially impressed with the large bronze and stone ones he sees on his travels.

These friends always seem willing to pose for a picture or give Hippo a boost so he can see and be seen.

But some might be too wild to ride just yet.

Pet store

Hippo wonders why all these animals are trapped behind glass. He sure is glad that he was rescued from a stuffed animal shelter and given a good home.