My Best Friend

If you're a product of the 90s like me, then this catchy commercial jingle will ring a bell deep in your childhood subconscious:


My Buddy, My Buddy
Wherever I go, he goes
My Buddy, My Buddy
I'll teach him everything I know
My Buddy, My Buddy
My Buddy and me!

Back then, this infectious tune brought images of three-foot tall Chucky-esque dolls complete with blue jeans, collared pullover, and a baseball cap, that could finally give form to your imaginary friend. Although I was never so lucky in my childhood as to own a My Buddy doll, or his counterpart Kid Sister, that void has finally been filled. Now I have a First Aid Review Book.

First Aid is the M2's red badge of courage; we carry it around both proudly as if to say "Behold! I am M2!" and grudingly, like a heavy burden that only we can bear. Everywhere I go, school, library, dinner, gym, my First Aid won't be far behind. It is covered in sweat, coffee stains, water damage, a tear or two, and even a little bit of blood, thanks to that period of time when Lanie's tail liked to bleed on everything. I will be surprised if my First Aid makes it to the Step. By then it will be probably taped together, or just a box full of loose pages. Oh, what a bittersweet day May 29th will be when I have to say goodbye to my dear friend...