Honey. That was the name of my first dog because of her golden colored fur. When she was a puppy, my grandmother gifted her to my mom six months before her wedding. My mom initially did not want a dog, but as soon as she saw Honey's face, she couldn't resist keeping her. My dad didn't want a dog either, but after moving in with my mom and Honey, he instantly fell in love with the fluffy-eared cocker spaniel. Honey was his first baby. Then September 26, 2004 rolled around and his new baby came. Little old me. That was the beginning to a beautiful journey. For the first three years of my life, it was me, my dad, and Honey in our own little world. I would play catch with her and ride on her back. Most of the time, we would just watch my dad play Madden on the PlayStation. Looking back, Honey was like my first sibling. She protected me, played with me, and watched me, and we grew up alongside each other. Even at that young age, I felt so much love for Honey. She was my best friend before I knew what a best friend was. I feel as though one of the reasons why I loved Honey so much was because she was the bridge for the relationship between me and my dad. She brought us closer together. When he took her on walks, I walked with them. When he fed her, I fed her. When he played with her, I played with her. I already was a daddy's girl, so Honey created additional moments where I could bond with my father. That was paradise to me as a little girl. Being his pride and joy. Another reason why I loved Honey was because I viewed her as a symbol of my parent's love. She was there for their marriage, their anniversaries, their birthdays, and their children. She blossomed and grew as they blossomed and grew. They went from two young adults in love, with very little money and a puppy to successful adults with beautiful children and a loving dog. She completed the family. She was the glue. Every child deserves to see their parents achieve success together and love each other through all the ups and downs. Luckily, I was able to witness that with Honey by my side. Sadly, Honey passed away in February 2012 from a sickness. I'll never forget when my father told me. It was a Sunday morning. I was getting ready to go to church. My dad called me in his room and told me that Honey had passed away the night before. I was in shock for a few minutes, but once it registered, I sobbed like a baby. Honey Bunches of Oats was gone. No more piggyback rides. No more playing catch. No more walks. My best friend was gone. She passed over ten years ago, yet I still think about her all the time. She sparked joy in everyone's life. There were never any complaints. Because of Honey, I will forever love dogs and the feelings of companionship and happiness that they bring with them. It may be cliche, but it's true: "A dog is a man's best friend."