Atop or at the Foot – RIP Peta

Atop, as the latest photo challenge, has made the picture I found of Peta the budgie, who departed life this evening, rather apt.  Peter was donated to us by young R’s preschool in 2011 after he had been retired from active service there as being too old.  He had been a regular weekend visitor to us, anyway.  After he came to live with us he laid an egg, so we had to rethink the name. Peta she became.

She has been a much-loved part of the family ever since. She would come across immediately if a hand or a face was nearby, and cling to the side of her cage to give kisses through the bars. She was quite happy to be taken out, hopping cheerfully onto a finger, and never bit the hand that lifted her back — although she would swear a little at that.

Over the past couple of days I realised that the years had finally caught up with her and I could see she was on her way out of more than just her cage. This evening. I was able to get a final cuddle and nibble from her, as did Younger Daughter, but not long after life left her.

Thank you, little bird. You gave joy in abundance to counter the sorrow we now feel, and you are sure to make Heaven a brighter place.

© March 2017 Colonialist