I can definitely relate to this. I bought Teddy Olaf on Christmas Eve last two years when I was feeling tired, worn out, and down. I remember that time I was unemployed and had no response from anywhere. When hope was diminishing, I walked passed the aisle where Olaf sat smiling wide. I touched the soft toys there and grabbed Olaf for a hug. It was as good as a hug from a human being! Amazing. Just like you described your friend's hug, I was suddenly uplifted! I saw that as a miracle of Christmas. Of course, I bought Teddy Olaf home. Till today I hugged it to sleep.