A couple of people have mentioned animal companions and I wanted to say I think that's a great idea. I've had all kinds of pets for most of my life -- dogs, guinea pigs, hamsters... Right now I have two dogs at home and being with them is a wonderful way to spend time "connecting" with someone who DOESN'T drain my batteries, ever. They are my babies and very much a part of my family, and whenever I'm down they make me feel much better. They love me unconditionally and they're always up for a good cuddle. Plus, you don't have to worry about impressing them or accidentally saying/doing the wrong thing. Unfortunately I go to school very far from home so I don't see them that much any more, but whenever I'm at home, my dogs sleep in the same bed as me, and I find that I actually sleep much better with them there. Once I'm out of school and living on my own, the first thing I'm doing is getting another dog. I really think that there are serious health benefits to having a pet!