I have always heard that "dog is a man's best friend", but it was not until a couple years ago that I really understood the meaning of this.

Three years ago, I traveled from North Wilkesboro to Sparta with my grandparents. We were going to meet a wonderful lady by the name of Anita Wooten. Weeks before this day, I had contacted her via Facebook because she had posted she was selling puppies on a yard sale page. The ride seemed longer than an hour but I know it really wasn't. When we finally reached her house, we were greeted at the door. I walked in first and was escorted down the hall where a little Yorkie mom laid with eight little Morkie (Yorkie Maltese mix) babies. I sat down and started sorting through the puppies, picking them up in amazement that they all fit snug in the palm of my hand. It wasn't long before one puppy, who eyes had not yet opened, crawled out of the box and right to my foot. I knew then this was the dog for me. Her determination immediately caught my attention. I picked this one, and the next hour back to Wilkesboro I debated on a name. The next couple of weeks I couldn't help but be excited. I couldn't wait to go pick her up. Her name was going to be Aribella Marie, but I was going to call her Bella. Finally, I went to get her and I was so proud to take her home.

Bella is my best friend. She has a sassy personality and is never afraid to show it. Bella goes with our family everywhere. We go to the store, many long car rides, walks, and even bike rides. She goes with us to hickory shopping. I do not remember many times when Bella was alone. Bella became spoiled quickly and I, nor my grandparents, minded Bella's spoiled nature. It wasn't until the fall of 2015 that I had to really be away from my best friend.

My first year in college was definitely one to remember, but I can not help but realize how much I wished my best friend was there. Bella could not attend with me my first year, but she was always in my heart. I always wondered what she was doing and I had many phone calls talking to her through the phone. It was not until we were completely separated that I realized how much I needed this small 7 lb dog in my life. There were times this dog licked my tears away, sat beside me in the middle of anxiety attacks, and stayed up watching movies on sleepless nights. She listened to many talks and has held all of my secrets. It was not until Bella that I knew dogs are not just animals. They are the best friends a human can ever have. So thanks Bella!