Childhood memories

Tony cleaned out our storage shed the other day only to find a nest of mice destroying my toys. One of which was a hand made stripped dog that my great Auntie had made me. She had given it to my parents when I was born, and so it hold special memories right through my childhood. This toy was so badly chewed on I have sadly had to throw it out. I keep trying to tell myself it is only a toy, material stuffed with foam and paper. But I can't help but feel like an old friend has died, and I must dispose of the toy with almost the same respect as you would a pet like a real cat or dog.