Ramblings and Bird Song

Birds Enjoy Flowers

2009-12-21T09:46:00.000-08:00

The roses may smell nice, but it is the baby's breath that is fun to chew!

A Rare Moment of Winter Sun

2009-12-19T09:57:00.001-08:00

Ernie and Joey enjoy the sunrise.

Jedi Bird

2009-12-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

Ernie studies the art of Lightsaber mastery from Jedi master Qui-gon Jinn.

Bird in the Hood

2009-12-19T09:49:00.000-08:00

Ernie is snuggled into Darren's hood.

A little bit tipsy.

2009-12-19T09:09:00.000-08:00

When Ernie and Joey fall asleep they tend to get a little bit tipsy.

Christmas Shenanigans I

2008-04-25T13:18:00.001-07:00

Ernie, having nestled himself into the red Christmas flowers, does his best to camouflage with his surroundings -- unfortunately his yellow cap betrayed his mischievousness.

Christmas Shenanigans II

2008-04-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

Soon after the Christmas stockings were hung, the little birds came to investigate...

Could those be millet tops?

Bathing Joe

2008-04-25T12:45:00.001-07:00

Oh happy day!

Treasure Hunt!

2008-04-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

In an effort to amuse Joey and Ernie while I was studying, I mixed millet into a bowl with a bunch of colored beads and set it up on the corner of my desk. The birds had a great time rooting out the seeds and I was able to quickly dispatch the mess with my trusty handheld dust-buster.

Mine!

2008-04-22T21:51:00.001-07:00

Darren is innocently working away at his computer when...

Two little birds decide to visit. One bird [Ernie] takes particular interest in Darren's keyboard and mouse.

Ernie: Hey, that's my mouse... back away pesky fingers!

Yet Another Toe Shot

2008-04-22T21:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, it tickles!

His "Pancakes*" or Hers?

2008-04-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

*Pancake: A term used to describe the relaxed posture of a snuggling bird. In an effort to maximize warmth, the bird flattens himself against the human shoulder - the flatter the "pancake" the happier the bird.

Watercup Invasion

2008-04-22T21:38:00.000-07:00

Ernie often likes to sneak a sip of water out of my cup.... One night however, sips turned into splashes, and the next thing I knew, both birds were trying to take a bath! Next thing I know there is water all over my face and spilling onto my shirt. To protect myself from further sogginess, I quickly whisked the birds into the washroom for a proper bath.

Hide 'N' Seek

2007-08-03T22:46:00.001-07:00

Birds Eating the Hand

2007-08-03T22:36:00.001-07:00

I was happily lounging on the sofa, when the birds flew in for a visit and settled into the palm of my hand quite comfortably. When Joey started nibbling on my fingers, I couldn't help but wonder - certainly I have heard of birds "eating out the palm of one's hand" but what about birds eating the actual hand?? Yes, these certainly are my pampered little princes.

Wii Want to Play

2007-08-03T22:22:00.001-07:00

Whenever Darren is beating me at Big Brain Academy, I call in my special reinforcement team to help me out... Afterall, Wii is for the whole flock -and the Wiimote makes a comfortable perch.

"Tucked" Birds

2007-08-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

There is something about "tucked" and napping bird that is simply irresistable... exponentially so when doubled!

Celina with Snuggling Birds

2007-08-03T08:24:00.001-07:00

Michelle with the Birds

2007-08-03T08:19:00.001-07:00

Affordable Housing

2007-08-02T22:26:00.000-07:00

Darren and I would love to purchase our very own home and I even found a quaint little cabin at an affordable price (a very difficult thing to do in Vancouver). Now all we need is some serious advice on downsizing. In the meantime, at least Ernie and Joey are able to enjoy our pint-sized piece of real estate!

My Three Guys

2007-08-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Human Landing Strip

2007-05-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

Part of being owned by a bird is being ready to be a "human landing strip". There definately seems to be a correlation between your bird's familiarity with you and how many different parts of your body he will appropriate for his own use! My birds are rarely satisfied with an arm, hand or shoulder and will sometimes get downright creative. In my house, if you bend over, your tush is fair game. Now, having your bird take over your face is not for the faint at heart, or for that matter, anyone with a larger bird either... An Amazon or a Grey would be downright scary.

Yesterday my husband was trying to take a picture of Joey sitting on my forehead when Ernie decided he did not want to be left out!

Monet's Garden

2007-05-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

Painted garden, pastel trees
Blue-green pond, pink lilies
Ernie ponders Monet's sunbeams
Images grow into dreams
Where might he fly tonight?
Will Celina see the site?

A Drawer Full of Treasures

2007-05-15T13:03:00.000-07:00

It is no secret why parrots are the mascots of pirates - they absolutely adore searching for treasures! In our household, a drawer left open, is a drawer begging to have its contents explored by my pint-sized parrots.

In this particular instance, I left open my cosmetics drawer with all its delightful brushes and little jars filled with colourful contents. Ernie skillfully used his nimble tongue (pictured right) in his quest to the dark depths of the back of the drawer. Of course, even the most enthusiastic drawer raider must stop and shake out his feathers from time to time as seen with Joey (pictured left).

Millet Management

2007-05-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

As the self-nominated manager of millet storage, it is Joey's job to oversee the putting away of new millet when it arrives. I am under strict instructions to clip the millet into appropriate sized pieces (not too small!), and tuck them away nicely into the container. Every tasty morsal must be carefully collected and not allowed to go to waste. Most importantly, the official taster must sample every branch to make sure it is of the highest quality. As manager, Joey feels it is his duty to perform this very important task himself.

"Scrap" Birds

2007-05-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

While I was working on Charlie's scrapbook (my nephew), Ernie and Joey were having a delightful time playing with all the little paper scraps I had discarded into the crafting waste basket.

Abi with the Birds

2007-05-09T15:41:00.001-07:00

Joey and Ernie particularly like Abi and her snazzy white stripes!

Heidi with the Birds

2007-05-09T15:38:00.001-07:00

In my continued effort to demonstrate how wonderful and friendly my little birds are... here is a picture of Ernie and Joey visiting with Heidi.

Constant Companions

2007-03-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

These days, I find that I spend much of my time in the companionship of my two little birds. Much of what I do seems to be interesting to them, and they will often fly in to investigate. On this particular evening, I was getting ready to accompany Darren to his wrap party. The birds are usually interested in the beautification process (they are birds after all!) - with all the opening and closing of drawers, the makeup brushes, and the little containers with colourful contents. They will sit on the laundry rack and watch, sometimes coming closer and landing on the dresser to investigate the jars and maybe finding a hairtie to chew (my birds LOVE to snap hairties). Often they watch the whole process from my shoulder. Once Joey even landed on my makeup brush as I was applying some eyeshadow. The only thing that seems to scare them away is the hairdryer. On this particular occassion, however, the curlers proved to be irresistable! They sat on my shoulders as they went in, only briefly flying away when hair or curlers would come too close, but coming right back as soon as possible. Once the curlers were in place, and no longer moving around, the birds happily begain to "beak" them. Thankfully their beaks are small and my curlers are made of durable plastic.

While Darren is away....

2007-03-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

While Darren is away at work, Joey takes the opportunity to try out "the master's chair". Final analysis, fairly comfortable, but ridiculously over sized!

On Darren's Shoulder

2007-03-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Ernie faithfully keeps his head tucked down while it is getting preened by Joey. When the job is done, both birds settle in for a nap. When resting on humans, Ernie will often flatten himself down, lying on his belly. I am not entirely sure why he does this (maybe because it is warmer?), but it sure is cute!

Incoming!

2007-03-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

In our home, one must always be ready for an "incoming" bird. Here Joey is coming to join Ernie.

Footbirds

2007-03-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

They came, they conquered, and it tickled! You try soft little feathers and scritchy little toes on the bottom of your foot sometime!

Bathing Birds (Again)

2007-03-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

Warm water, and a little bit of sunshine makes for some very happy little birds.

Is a carnation as sweet as a rose?

2007-03-25T19:53:00.000-07:00

Answer: Yes. And, all the better for landing on without those pesky thorns.

Where's Ernie?

2007-03-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately for Ernie, his plumage is not exactly of the "camouflage" variety!

Apples, Peaches, Brocco-pie!

2007-03-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

So far, I have been able to get my birds to eat one vegetable - broccoli. If only carrots and beets were shaped like little trees, perfect for shredding and flinging.

The Early Bird

2007-03-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

My hair is often a little wild when I first wake up... that is why my hairstylists, Joey and Ernie, come to the bedroom every morning to put every hair back in its place. They are very good at what they do, and all they require in exchange is millet, broccoli, and grapes.

Appropriately, for this morning shot, I am wearing my "Early Bird" t-shirt from threadless.com.

Birdie See, Birdie Do

2007-02-14T17:44:00.000-08:00

While I was selecting some stori

es to read to Julian (since I haven't had a chance to pick up some new books from the Library), the birds came to investigate what I was up to. They quickly figured out they could sit inside this new little "hidey-hole" in my littlest book case behind the sofa. I don't know why, but the birds often become fascinated with new spaces. Two days in a row, one of the first things the birds have done when they have been let out of their cage in the morning is fly over to the book case and check it out.

Puzzle Piece Tag

2007-02-14T17:33:00.000-08:00

Joey has introduced a new game into the family.

First, Joey sneaks down and grabs a puzzle piece. This phase can take awhile, because we usually catch him and shoo him away before he can get a piece into his beak.

Second, Joey quickly and adroitly works to seperate the upper "picture" layer of the puzzle piece from the lower "cardboard" layer.

Third, as soon as we notice, we chase Joey around the living room trying to get the puzzle piece back before he can do too much damage. This phase continues until one of us can trick Joey into dropping the puzzle piece - usually on the bottom of his cage once he is cornered inside.

I must say, that although I do not relish the idea of having my puzzle shredded into little bits... it is actually kinda fun chasing Joey around the room, and I usually find myself laughing as I chase my little Bandit Bird.

Hey! Stop Stealing my Balsa!

2007-02-14T17:26:00.000-08:00

I was experimenting with the camera when this little squabble over the balsa wood broke out between Ernie and Joey. Lesson learned, never have the camera on B&W when shooting the birds... they look so much better in full colour!

Ernie was being greedy again, grabbing the stick and pulling it away from Joey. Luckily, Joey knows how to asset himself... I love the foot in the air - it's like "HEY! Give that BACK, or I'm gonna take it!"

Balsa Wood Bandits

2007-02-14T17:22:00.000-08:00

Darren gave the birds a piece of balsa wood for their chewing enjoyment. Ernie and Joey spent the next 15 minutes happily shredding it all over Darren and the floor. We are considering going into the wood chip business.

Puzzling Birds

2007-02-02T11:49:00.000-08:00

Last Night the Evers girls ended up coming to visit. While Darren helped Gracie with her math, Abi decided she wanted to do a puzzle. The birds were soon enraptured with puzzling... turning over the pieces in their beaks, skattering them around, and trying to pull the pieces apart. I soon found myself chasing Joey around the living room trying to get a piece back before he destroyed it. If there is a piece missing when the puzzle is done, I will know who to suspect.

Ernie is trying to decide which piece to munch.

Tactile Toes

2007-02-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

Please note how the lovebird (Ernie) wraps his toes around the curtain as he makes his descent head first. Lovebirds have amazing feet. The two toes forward, two toes back design is part of what designates lovebirds as "parrots" and makes them such agile climbers.

Ernie is Stripping Again

2007-02-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

Strips on the floor, strips on my desk... who needs to pay for an electric paper shredder when you have an Ernie?

Two Heads Are Better Than One

2007-02-02T11:29:00.000-08:00

While Ernie and Joey were chewing a catalogue on my desk, their heads merged together into one fantastic paper shredding machine.

3rd Place Finish!

2007-01-27T14:17:00.000-08:00

I am excited to annouce that Joey and I placed third in the ALBS contest! Joey is so cute, it is no surprize!

http://www.africanlovebirdsociety.com/pets/results_2006.html

Cute Photosites

2007-01-25T10:46:00.000-08:00

www.cuteoverload.com can always be relied upon to get the oohs and ahs going. Yesterday they took it to a new level with a photo of a little lovebird sleeping in the palm of someone's hand (shot by Roy Berger). The lovebird photo was actually part of a gallery on this website:
http://www.pbase.com/parrothouse/parrots

Birds and Babies

2007-01-24T16:37:00.000-08:00

Last year was a year all about birds. This year I would like to expand this blog a bit to talk about some very important babies! Charlie's first birthday is fast approaching in April and then there is baby Spencer (due in May), baby Reddekopp (due in July), and baby Chow (due in July). I am very much looking forward to the births of all these babies, and will be needing to squeeze in some baby holding time in between working away at my Master's.

Winter Morning Haiku

2007-01-24T16:12:00.000-08:00

As groggy eyes open

Happiness is found with birds-

New Light greets Plumage.

Ernie in Flight

2007-01-24T16:01:00.000-08:00

Darren managed to capture a shot of Ernie in flight. You may notice his face looks a little funny- this is because he still wet from his bath with Joe. Although it is a little bit blurry, I love how the picture captures the "curving" of the wings mid-flap. I realized that flight must be as much about the open/close of the wing curve as it is of the up and down movement of the wings.

More Cute Bathtime Shots of Joey

2007-01-24T15:52:00.000-08:00

What can I say? The bird loves water!

Bloedel Conservatory

2007-01-24T15:38:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas holidays Wayne, Gloria, Anita, Randy, Charlie and I went to Bloedel Conservatory to visit the birds. Amazingly, I did not take a picture of Charlie (the baby). However, I did get a nice shot of Charlie the Salmon Crested Cockatoo, and a Blue and Gold Macaw.

Birds in the Navity?

2006-12-22T13:51:00.000-08:00

Joey and Ernie wanted to play the part of the "angels" in the Christmas story this year... Certainly they are able to fly, but I am not so sure about the requirement for "angelic" behaviour! Wicker basket, Hairtie, and stray pieces of paper say, "No Way!"

Drawer Raiders

2006-12-22T13:33:00.000-08:00

Ernie: What are those white fluffly things?!?

Joey: Do you think they would be good for chewing?

Ernie: I don't know Joey... first we have to get them out of that bag!

Winter Sunshine

2006-12-22T13:13:00.000-08:00

The birds are enjoying one of the rare moments of sunshine available in the Winter. First, it must be a clear morning. Second, it must be just the right time (only a 30 minute time frame in the morning). Third, due to the limited angle of the sunlight, the birds must be held in just the right spot. When all conditions are met, however, it makes for some very happy birds!

Contest Entered!

2006-12-22T12:39:00.000-08:00

I entered the ALBS contest - so everyone cross your fingers and toes for me in the hopes that I will win! The winner will be announced Jan 5th. Only four photos were allowed with each submission, so I montaged 3 of my favorite pictures of Joey bathing into this one shot.

Doctor Joe

2006-12-22T12:20:00.000-08:00

The night after the first big snow storm in November, Ernie came down sick. He had gorged himself on Broccoli the night before, severly irritating his digestive system. We rushed him to Night Owl for treatment and Ernie spent several days at the hospital recovering. Poor Joey had no idea where Ernie had gone, and was very distressed at his absence. Needless to say, Joey was very pleased with Ernie's return home. Perhaps sensing that his best buddy was still a bit under the weather, Joey spent the next couple of days preening Ernie in all the satisfying spots. It may have been our imagination, but all that preening really seemed to help Ernie feel better! The pictures are all "red" because of the heat light we had shining on the cage - per Doctor MacDonald's instructions, Ernie was kept very warm.

Joey in Flight

2006-11-25T13:18:00.000-08:00

As I was taking a picture of Ernie and Joey sitting on my stamps, Joey flew towards me (to get the camera?), and amazingly, the camera snapped this shot at just the right second. Even more awesome, Joey was in focus! I photoshopped out the distracting background elements to make Joey stand out more.

Ernie as a Celestial Object?

2006-11-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

I heard some unusual sounds coming from my craft corner, and I was delighted to find Ernie perched on the ornamental candle holder my friend Pokin gave to me in high school.

Lately, I have been reading a book about the constellations of the sky and the ancient stories associated with those constellations. Seeing Ernie amoungst the Sun, Moon, and Stars starting to make me think... my birds need a constellation! Ernie's likeness would make a great celestial object.

What's Missing?

2006-11-25T12:30:00.000-08:00

Two birds...

Two heads, two beaks, two eyes, two tummies...

But only three feet?!

My Birds Are Escape Artists!

2006-11-25T12:02:00.000-08:00

There must be a siren, audible only to lovebirds, which calls to Ernie and Joey from the entrance hallway. Although the birds know this space is forbidden, they are always waiting for their chance to escape and explore the hidden wonders just beyond our inner front door. The birds are always watching, and waiting to pounce (err, fly) when given the opportunity.

Now, it should be mentioned that in our entrance hall, there is a staircase that leads to suite upstairs, and at the top of the stairs there is a light, some 12 feet high, hanging from the ceiling. It should also be mentioned that birds particularly relish bright, shiny, objects in high places! When they escape to hallway, it does not take long for the birds to make their way up and onto said light, delightfully out of my reach. At first I employed the "menacing broom" routine to convince my little birds to come down from that golden light. Then I realized I could lure them down with their most favored object of all -- the camera. I had only seconds to snap this photo of Ernie before he noticed the camera and immediately flew down and landed on it. I was then able to promptly carry my little hooligan back inside our suite where he belongs.

Joey's Wing

2006-11-25T11:40:00.000-08:00

Just as I clicked the shutter button, Joey streched out his wing
allowing me to capture this lovely shot of his wing feathers.
It's amazing how shiny they are!

Hide and Seek

2006-11-25T11:29:00.000-08:00

Joey: I think we should hide over here Ernie.

Ernie: I don't know... maybe we should go down there.

Joey: Look! This will make the perfect hiding spot... she'll never find us.

Ernie: Okay, but move over and make some space for me.

Joey: *chirping laughter* She'll never find us now.

Gotta Get That Itch!

2006-11-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

Everybird knows that when the head is Itchy it MUST be scratched. Here, Joey takes a break from his purse explorations to find some relief.

Birds on YouTube!

2006-11-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

Now people around the world can enjoy cute video footage of Joey and Ernie. I will have one video at a time directly on this website. Below is a list of all of their videos on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/v/WS_aVk6zPqY

www.youtube.com/v/SekFaPE2iPU

Front Yard Bandits!

2006-11-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

Since the acorns began to fall, the front yard has seen plenty of traffic in the way of squirrels and Stellar's Jays. Ernie and Joey seem to be somewhat suspicious about these larger, and noiser (who would have thought it possible) visiters.

The "Tuck"

2006-11-02T22:56:00.000-08:00

If you have a bird, then you will know that the "tuck" is the ultimate in cute. You know your birdie loves you when he is willing to go into "tuck" mode while fluffed out and resting on your arm. But a second before this picture, the birds where double "tucked", unfortunately, Darren's taking the picture jostled Ernie out of it for a minute.

Can You Feel the "Love" Tonight?

2006-11-02T22:43:00.000-08:00

"And can you feel the love tonight, it is where we are. It's enough for this [feather-ed lovebird] that we got this far. And can you feel the love tonight, how it's laid to rest. It's enough to make [birds and adoring owners] believe the very best."
~ Lyrics by Tim Rice (with a few alterations), Music by Elton John

Cheek your bird!

2006-11-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

Soft, warm, and fluffy - Get some some quality "cheeking" time in with your bird today.

No Soup For You!

2006-11-02T21:25:00.000-08:00

Recently I suffered the misfortune of having all four of my wisdom teeth removed. For awhile, I found my self existing on a diet of lukewarm liquid mush -- not too hard, not to cold, and definitely not too hot. I should also make two observations about Ernie at this point: 1) he normally has little interest in "people" food (to my distress, as I am always trying to get him to eat his veggies!) and 2) he tends to be extremely over cautious about where he will land (getting this bird into a bathtub can be like pulling teeth! - I hope you caught that). I had consumed one mouthful of my orange/white mush (carrot, onion, miso and tofu in a yellow bowl), when all of the sudden Ernie decided to land IN MY SOUP! He got hip deep before he realized he was sliding into a bog of carrot goo and flew off to his cage to start preening his legs vigorously. Poor Ernie was forced to suffer further dunking in a bowl of clean water to wash off his feathers as he kicked and squirmed like mad. Joey's response to Ernie's bedraggled state: "Oh, I just can't look... ".

Doppleganger Syndrome

2006-11-02T21:13:00.000-08:00

Joey and Ernie look so much a like, sometimes I feel like I am seeing double. Where does one bird end and the other begin? Same dark eyes, same buff coloured beaks - thankgoodness for the patch of green on the back of Ernie's head!

Submission to Birdtalk Magazine.

2006-10-31T15:15:00.000-08:00

The following is a letter submitted to the "mailbag" at Birdtalk magazine:

In response to your article “Lights, Camera, Action” (December 2006), I am offering a piece of advice for all aspiring avian photographers: allow your camera to chirp like a bird! I created a camera obsession in my two peach-faced lovebirds, Joey and Ernie, by setting my Canon to “pet sounds” mode. Months later, if my birds see the camera, or even hear the familiar whirring of the zoom, they will stop whatever adorable antic they are up to, and immediately fly to the camera and peck at it with curiosity. Sometimes I wonder if Ernie thinks the camera is a very odd looking birdie. Photographing the birds has definitely taken on an air of intrigue and suspense in our household – the camera is first turned on in another room, and then snuck in behind our backs and pulled out at the last possible second. I have included a picture of Ernie sitting atop the camera.

Celina Gatley, British Columbia (Canada)

P.S. I really enjoy reading your delightful magazine, and my lovebirds always appreciate looking at the beautiful centerfolds. Keep up the good work!

It should be noted that while this letter was being written, Joey pecked at the camera several times trying to knock it over. (He is very much into a "I drop it, you pick up. Repeat ad nausem." phase right now). Both birds have since settled down onto my right arm (two inches above wrist) for a quiet afternoon nap as I type out this post. I think they like the gently swaying caused by my typing - Joey is even in the "tuck" position.

African Lovebird Society Writing Contest

2006-09-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

The African Lovebird society is hosting a writing contest, and I really want to enter. Hopefully my two little muses will inspire me to write something great. Joey is already helping me select which photos to submit with my entry. The deadline is December 15, 2006.

See: http://www.africanlovebirdsociety.com/pets/pet_contest_2006.html for more information.

Let me know if there is a particular birdie anecdote you think I should incorporate into my entry.

Princess Tiki Up Close

2006-09-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

For my mother's approval, a nice close-up shot of her highness, Princess Tiki.

Tiki is a Princess

2006-09-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

My mother's budgie, Tiki, is a princess. My father built her a delightful mansion to live in, and she has a marblesque birdbath (not pictured). Princess Tiki has my parents wrapped around her little toe: my mother is trained to mist Tiki for her daily showers, and keeps *both* of her food dishes full; my father makes many different types of whistles to keep Miss Tiki entertained; and until they realized the con, both of my parents were accustomed to carrying her cage right up to her when it was time for her to go back inside. My father has even declared that I am no longer "the baby", but that the princess has usurped my place! Of course, as I write this, their royal highnesses, Prince Ernie and Prince Joey are roosting atop my head, so I really cannot complain.

A Bird and his Shadow

2006-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

We have all played with our shadows from time to time, particularly when we were children and I was delighted to discover that birds are much the same. Several days ago, when the late afternoon sunlight was pouring into the living room, I found Ernie pecking away at his shadow while perched atop a door. I imagined him thinking to himself, "what is this thing? Why does it move when I move? Is this another birdie?!@". Unfortunately, the somewhat indistinct birdie on the wall was somewhat less alluring than the camera, and he flew over to the camera, before I could get a shot of both Ernie and his shadow.

Birds on Vacation!

2006-09-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

The birds' Whistler vacation started with a dazzling drive up the sea to sky highway. They were amazed with the breath taking views of the mountains, ocean, trees and wildlife (including two ravens). The sky was blue, and the sun was bright. It was a great beginning to our labour day long weekend.

Always the bird "psychologist", I noticed that the birds demonstrated an interesting pattern of behaviour while we were in Squamish for a pitstop. Darren needed to fill the car with gas, so he dropped me off at Tim Horten's to get some food. I strapped the bird carrier into my seat (I had been carrying it up until that point), and jumped out of the car. The birds were perfectly fine while Darren was in the car with them. Then when Darren returned from the gas station I got back into the car and Darren decided to go inside to get a frostee from Wendy's. While I was in the car with them, they were also perfectly content. A few minutes later, however, when I left the birds alone in the car (I was throwing my empty soup container out in a garbage can 10 feet away from the car), they immediately starting calling out to me. I have noticed them use the same type of call when they are separated from each in the house (particularly, when they are more nervous about their surroundings) - it is almost as if they are saying to each other "Here I am, where are you?" back and forth. While I was out of sight, I whistled back to comfort them and as soon as they could see me again, they stopped. I suspect Darren and I may be members of the flock!

We continued on our way to Whistler, and Tantalus Lodge welcomed its smallest guests! I had phoned ahead to make sure it would be okay to bring them, and was assured that it would be fine :). The first night we were there, I left the birds in their house, not wanting to expose them to too much change all at once and they settled into their big cage for the night.

The next morning (Saturday), they were allowed some flight time outside of the cage and amused our other guests (Tam and Gram) with their room exploring antics. The top of the picture frames and the dangling light cord were soon graced with a birdie presence. By the end of day, they had also figured out how to land on the large drapery rod.

On Sunday, they continued to explore the main room, and became fascinated with the large mirror over the fireplace. Ernie and Joey took turns hovering in front of it, so as to see the interesting birdie being reflected back at them. I also managed to coax Joey into a bath (of course, from previous posts you will understand how difficult this was) much to the delight of Tam and Gram. Ernie was content with a few splashes.

By Monday, the birds were more comfortable with their new surroundings, and made their way into the back bedroom - exploring the bathroom shower curtain rod, the window curtain rods, and the large bedroom mirror. After we packed up, and checked out, we stopped at Brandywhine falls on the way home. I carried the birds with me in the carrier as we walked to the falls and many of the other visitors were very curious about them. One Asian tourist asked me if they could talk. I replied that lovebirds don't usually learn to talk, but upon further reflection, I believe I was mistaken - lovebirds "talk" all the time, we humans just have to learn how to understand them!! I have included a picture of Joey and Ernie taken a safe distance away from the falls. I propped their carrier up on a large rock in order to take the shot.

Joey and Grace

2006-09-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

Whenever Gracie comes over to scrapbook, Curious Joe is very interested in what she is up to.

"Sunday Afternoons"

2006-09-12T15:46:00.000-07:00

"Sunday afternoons, nothing much to do... but there's no one I'd rather do nothing with than you" - Cub

"This bird was made for bathing..."

2006-09-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

"This bird was made for bathing, and that's just what he'll do,
and one of these days this bird is going to SPLASH all over you!"
(Sung to the tune of these "Boots made for Walking" by Nancy Sinatra).

Little Birds, Big Decisions

2006-09-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

Ernie: I just can't decide... tree or flowers?

Joey: I don't know, Ernie... I think she should use the Umbrella stamp - it even has water droplets on it!

Ernie: Good idea Joey, so long as she doesn't use that stamp with the C A T on it! What is she doing with that thing anyway?@?!

A Taste for Fashion? - Part 2

2006-08-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

From purses, to closets... Joey really seems to have an inner flair for clothing and accessories!

Fanbird

2006-08-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

Joey is my biggest "fan" in life. He is often interested in what I am doing, and will fly over to me (or near me) to have a closer look. On this particular morning I was brushing my hair and getting ready to go out the door and Joey flew over to the fan beside me to watch me.

Shutterbirds

2006-08-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

When I first got my Camera, I was delighted to discover it had a "pets" mode, that when set, made my camera chirp. So there I was, pushing away on the buttons, "chirp, chirp, chirp...". Of course, when Ernie heard the camera he was immediately impressed, and it did not take him long to discover that the noise was coming from the silver box-like thing in my hands. Now, Ernie is a very friendly bird, and he delights in meeting other "birds". Within moments, I found Ernie sitting on top of the camera, pecking away at the buttons and singing to it furiously. Okay, maybe pet mode was not such a good idea, I couldn't very well have him flying to the camera every time I wanted to take a picture of him! Unfortunately birds have LONG memories. Pet mode was soon turned off, but Ernie's fascination with the camera lingers on. Now when I want to take a photo of the birds, I turn the camera on in another room, sneak up on them, and snap quickly!

Whatever one birds gets into, the other quickly follows, and Joey has become quite interested in the camera too... as this close up can attest.

Study Buddies

2006-08-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

Having been accepted to a Master's Program at Regent College (Master's of Divinity), I know there is a LOT of studying in my future. I recently picked up my textbook for OT foundations (my first class!), and began reading it in the presence of the birds. Shortly thereafter, I discovered not one, but TWO, new birdie obsessions: erasers and pentops. The birds spent *hours* amusing themselves trying to chew on my eraser and pen. When I underlined, birds were on the back half of my pen/pencil... When I highlighted, birds were chewing on the cap.... When I tried to shoo them off, birds were dangling from my pen/pencil or jumping onto my fingers! I am definatley going to have to practise keeping myself focused, but at least I will never be lonely!

A Tisket, A Tasket... Bird in a Basket?

2006-08-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Okay it's not a basket, but a Flower shaped candle holder... but he looks so cute! Both birds are attracted to these pretty glass containers, and on this fine evening Ernie decided to jump in and start preening.

Naughty Gnawing

2006-07-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

Where there is something to chew, there's a bird...

Enthusiastic Bather

2006-07-23T17:15:00.000-07:00

There's wet, and then there's Joey!

My Little Buddy!

2006-07-23T17:04:00.000-07:00

One little bird and a whole lot of cute.

Upside -Down Backwards

2006-07-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life requires a different perspective...

Cerulean Rumps

2006-07-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

Ernie Loves Toes

2006-07-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

Is it because they wiggle? Or the sparkly toe polish? I'm not sure... but Ernie loves to land on my toes and warble away. It is common knowledge that feathers tickle tooties, but it should be added that beaks are very ticklish too. One little wiggle on my part, and Ernie is more than ready to chomp away...

Shower Buddies

2006-07-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

One day I was looking for the birds and I thought I heard their chirps resonnating from the bathroom... When they were not atop the bathroom door, I was confused until I discovered them in their new roosting location on the shower curtain. The birds love practicing their interior decorating skills on the liner curtain -- they bit off little bits of plastic from the top edge, giving it a "delightful" deckle edging.

Book Burrowing

2006-07-04T18:14:00.000-07:00

It seems that Joey is a scholar -- who knew he was so interested in text books? Well, at least in gnawing on them. Still, it would be nice to have the first Lovebird in history who digested enough of a discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and numerical analysis to become a Mathematician.

Happy Birthday Birdies!

2006-07-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

For my birthday Michelle and Tyler gave me a double-decker bird house painted my three favorite colours: green, blue and yellow. It even had Ernie and Joey's names painted on the side. The birds were thrilled and have spent a lot of time trying to smush themselves into the little holes. Joey has made himself a project of trying to make the holes bigger. I think I will get my dad to help him out, lest he get it open just enough to get inside, but not enough to get back out... I don't want him to get stuck!

A Taste for Fashion?

2006-07-04T17:43:00.000-07:00

Joey was immediately enamoured with my pretty new floral Tommy Hillfigar purse. Soon after I set it down near his house, he ran over, jumped up on top and started poking his little head inside. Of course, where one bird goes, the other is sure to follow! I was able to get this cute shot of the birds socializing with each other.

Ernie Roots for France

2006-06-12T10:45:00.000-07:00

World Cup fevor has hit our household!

Darren is rooting for Argentia and Japan.
Argentia is Darren's favorite team.
Japan is D's team in the work pool.
Darren is out!

Joey is rooting for the Ivory Coast.
Peachfaced Lovebirds come from West Africa.
Joey is out!

Celina is rooting for Germany.
I think it would be nice for the hometeam to win.
Celina gets Third Place!

Ernie is rooting for France.
E made his preference known by landing on D's France hat.
Ernie comes in second!

When I decided to document Ernie's preference, however, Ernie decided to make life difficult. Everytime I would point the camera at him, he would come and land ON THE CAMERA (Ernie is very fascinated with the camera). I had to replace him on the hat about six times before he finally would stay put. Finally, I looked him straight in the eye, and told him to "stay" -- and he did. Who says, birds don't understand language?!?!

A Sad Goodbye

2006-06-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

This should have been a post announcing 'Zeus' safe return home to Christina... unfortunately, things do not always end up the way we would like them to end up.

Monday, June 5th, at around 11:00am in the morning 'Zeus suddenly had a seizure and died.

I was on my way to give 'Zeus his morning medicine, and let him out to play with Ernie and Joey, when I heard flapping from the computer room. I rushed in, and noticed that 'Zeus was holding up his foot and nibbling on it... signs that he may have injured his foot somehow. Then he put his foot back down on his perch, and placed his weight on it, so I thought I may have been imagining things. Unsure, I decided to let 'Zeus out, and give him his medicine later. Upon letting 'Zeus out, however, I discovered that something was very wrong because he wasn't able to land properly, and kept landing on his stomach. I quickly rushed to pick him up and place him in my "emergency cage" (a reptitle box with clean dish towels placed on the bottom for the bird's comfort). I rushed to get on the phone with animal emergency so I could take him into the Bird Hospital (it is technically closed on Monday's, but if you have an emergency you can go). As I was on the phone, however, 'Zeus had 3 sets of wing flapping movements each one making him weaker than the last. After the last set of flapping 'Zeus had died. Unsure, of whether he had died, or was unconscious, I rushed him over to the doctor... but it was too late.

We are very saddened by the loss of 'Zeus. It seems strange to be only filling one water dish, and one set of food dishes every morning. I miss his tiny little chirps. Hopefully he is flying the skies of heaven and resting in a tree somewhere with Bert, Puffy, and Rainbow.

'Zeus takes a bath!

2006-06-03T14:28:00.000-07:00

Birds are adorable when they bathe and 'Zeus is no exception. Since his arrival in our home, I had been trying to get 'Zeus to take a bath -- I was delighted when I walked into the back bedroom and discovered Zeus was splashing around in Joey's bathing bowl (Ernie is very particular and will only bathe in my hands under the faucet). I quickly ran to grab the digital camera and snap some photos.