Now that Jakarta has adjusted beautifully to his new habitat, I thought I would share with you how he has fared with his new friends.  In fact, I received an entire book, full of pictures and stories.

He has toured the school more than once, used extensively in measuring projects.  As we know he is slightly over 32 feet long, it’s a great comparison for things such as a carpool line, hallways, and classroom lengths.  He can be transported by 16 Pre-K scholars and 2-3 teachers.  He loves it.

The book is filled with him being hugged and cuddled (and maybe pounced) by kids who love him.  There were lots of lovely pictures of kids using him as a rest-time buddy, and those were my favorite.  While I’m thrilled he is a math manipulative, I think we can all agree that isn’t my strength.  Anyone who could actually visualize 32 ft. would never agree to sew 32 ft. My ignorance has made me blissful…hmm…guess that old saying is true.

He has been filmed by the 8th graders, hung on display, and placed back in the room with his buddies, where sometimes he hides in plain sight (those pictures are neat…like a massive Where’s Waldo, which is far creepier with a reticulated python).  Unfortunately, he scares the pants off some of the younger siblings, who I encourage to give him a big hugs.  He LOVES hugs.

Finally, he made the Indianapolis Star, perhaps his proudest moment. I hope he has a long life, as I know not the life expectancy of large snakes made out of wool felt.  But really, does anyone?  When Kelly handed me his love story, she asked if it would be a candidate for my Hope Chest, where she knows I store only my greatest of treasures.  Oh yes.  Immediately, if not sooner, because while he may be loved by many, I was the first.