Leo Plans to Stow Away to Mexico (Only Version)

There was a little confusion about the trip to Mexico.

A message had appeared saying, "México must be exciting for lion." But who was the lion? Was it referring to me? Was it supposed to be "panda," but simply a typo? Or was there someone else who had been paying attention?

There was, of course, Leo.

Leo is the little Beanie Baby who normally sits on the dashboard of the car. He has a habit of filling in for Panda when Panda isn't around and an unexpected adventure happens. Leo is always there, riding along and ready for an opportunity.

And apparently, Leo had been listening.

I was planning a very low-budget adventure to Ensenada, Mexico, to visit a friend whose boat is moored there. There wasn't really a reason for the trip other than simply going. The plan was to fly to San Diego, walk across the border, take a bus to Ensenada, and stay aboard my friend's boat... all while keeping the trip as low budget as possible.

Panda, of course, was planning to come along.

But then Leo apparently decided that he should come too.

Somehow, he caught wind of the Mexico plans through the mysterious message about the lion. The next thing anyone knew, Leo had climbed into the backpack that he knew would be traveling to Mexico.

He peeked out, hoping he wouldn't be seen when I snapped his photo. Of course, he's welcome, and I won't let on that I know he's there.

Panda, meanwhile, doesn't even know!

Shhh... don't tell Panda... yet.

The photo was shared with the caption, "Guess who looks like they are getting ready to stow-away on the trip to Mexico!!" The response was two wows—one for Leo and one for the caption.

As for whether Leo actually makes it to Mexico, or whether Panda has anything to say about this unexpected competition for a place in the backpack...

What happens next is yet to be determined.