One weekend on our visit to the local pet store,
looking at the different pets to adopt and adore.
We made our way to the very back of the shop,
and before us a gorgeous sight, we had to stop.

A room filled with birds of every different kind,
we went inside not sure of what we would find.
One lone parrot with feathers of grey and white.
soon captured our hearts, it was love at first bite.

Given a black glove to put our hand in the cage,
this feathered creature went flying off in a rage.
Holding tightly, the gloved finger, with his beak,
at the same time emitting a loud piercing shriek.

I was completed captivated by this pretty bird,
once we knew the cost, we left without a word.
All dreams I had suddenly becoming very dim,
trying to make $700, was going to remain slim.

Owning a fascinating pet in under six weeks,
wondering if parrots ever learn how to speak.
After buying a wild bird, training was started,
training a parrot was not for the fainthearted.

Biting so hard it would make one of us bleed,
but we were determined with time to succeed.
Cappy was a name we decided would best fit,
saying some words with friends an instant hit.

There wasn’t anything Cappy wouldn’t eat,
hidden donuts in your pocket a favorite treat.
Eating meatloaf, some mashed potatoes too,
if having pancakes, Cappy demanded a few.

Completely heartbroken when I became sick,
my throat was closing, I had to be seen quick.
It seemed I had a very bad allergy to feathers,
our life suddenly changed by stormy weathers.

Now devastated we would loose a sweet pet,
unsure how to cope, we would never forget.
All the many months he brightened our days,
watching him eat ice, and giving him praise.

Going to a local pet store in our home town,
how was our family to stop breaking down.
Wanting only to assure Cappy a good home,
we left that day emptied handed and alone.

Months spent with a pet you can truly love,
friends to remain company sent from above.
Having a pet to share part of your life with,
another blessing from God really a true gift.

© Brenda Sparkman
June 14, 2006

Midi Playing: "Butterfly Kiss"