I hate being completely alone. One, because my irrational mind hears and sees all sorts of things that aren’t really there but could turn into something you see in a horror movie. Two, because I’ve just gotten used to having my best friend with me the vast majority of the time. Even when he snores at 2:30 in the morning. 😉

The first trip I handled fairly well, and the same with the second. And I know that he’s been planning on this one for a while now, but three business trips in three months after years of NOT having to do those things… I just don’t like it.

Knowing how I was not looking forward to him leaving, Jared bought me a book that he knew would make me smile. He actually gave it to me two days ago, but he knew I would need something to help me through today, and especially tonight. And it is.

I mean, look at that picture right there. If that doesn’t make some part of you go “Awwww….” then there might just be something wrong with you.

This book has forty-seven stories of heartwarming bonds developed across species of animals. Some aren’t too weird, like between baby birds of different species. Others are surprisingly different, such as the lioness and the baby oryx, or the elephant and the stray dog.

Naturally, you can’t forget to include that ALL stories have cute, cuddly pictures involved. It’s just a feel-good book.

So, thank you, Jared, for leaving me a present that you know would help reduce my anxiety while you were gone. Just looking through it again has helped me feel so much happier. Yet again, another one of your thoughtful, simple gestures has become a highlight, the positive thought, for my day.