Opening Altair

Breyer's packaging has been frustrating collectors for years.

When I wrapped Pony Pal Mila's Altair for Christmas, I wondered if I should open his box and cut him free from his bubble wrap. I was glad that I did not.

She recognized that Breyer box immediately and crowed in delight. And then the struggle began.

She had no idea I was filming her and I got some pretty hilarious candid shots

as she worked to get that bubble wrap open.

At last Altair was free, and her eyes met mine across the room. She grinned the grin of a fellow collector who has just scored a model of her dreams.

Mila examined him and squealed how much she loved him, and then kept him with her the rest of the day.

She showed him to Aunt Jessica who had also received a Breyer Jewels from me.

Altair was so loved that he was with her the entire holiday - here he is guarding the stairs so that no parents could come up and get into the kids' "hideout."

I remember getting a few models that meant that much to me for Christmas.

And I am glad it is now a shared experience with Pony Pal Mila.