Only at CCU...

...does your teacher get diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer...
and the whole class surround her, place hands on her, and take turns praying for her recovery.

It was pretty beautiful. It is days like these when I am blessed that I go to CCU.

My Best Friend

I have this affinity toward dogs. I always have-- maybe since that is all I grew up with. Well, I was lucky enough to receive the best Christmas gift ever, Aida Elle. We call her Bucky. Or Tot. Or Bucklet. Or Buckton. She answers to almost anything. (above is a picture of Aida after Lindsey managed to put a t-shirt on her!)

She is my best friend. I have never loved anything more than I have her. I didn't even know this kind of love was possible. I would do anything for this little puppy. She has such a beautiful, sweet personality. (and the cleanest teeth I have ever seen!)-- Thanks to Kelly, since I use her toothbrush to brush Bucky's teeth. :)

Aida sleeps with me every night, snuggled in the crook of my legs or cuddled in my arms. It has become so hard for me to sleep without her. I am not sure what my future husband will do, because she won't want to share the bed! :)

I think dogs are a true gift from God- maybe one of His best creations! I heard a super corny story about when God created dogs. Here is the gist of it:

Adam and Eve were in the garden. After the fall, Adam and Eve were apart from God. So He created an animal that would reflect the character of God for Adam and Eve and stay with them as they left Eden. God created this animal. Adam asked, "Well, what should I name it? I already used up all the names with the other creatures."

God answered, "Name it dog, since it is a reflection of my character, you should be reminded of that because it is also a reflection of my name."

This made me cry. I know it isn't true, but there is a lot of truth to it. Dogs are the most selfless, loving creatures. They would do anything to please their owners and love on them. Aida doesn't sleep if no one is in the basement with her, she usually stays at the top of the stairs wimpering.

If she is left alone for a long time, she will chew off a piece of blanket, bring it to the top of the stairs, and push it under the door, just begging for attention. All she wants is to be with us and around us. She hasn't met a person she doesn't love from the beginning. She will follow you from room to room, just to be with you. She isn't independent.

Dogs are truly a reflection of God's love and character. I wish I could be as selfless and loving as Bucky.