Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Daphne

Yesterday, I arrived home from work to find that my beloved budgie, Daphne, had passed during the day. She was on the floor of her cage, in the corner. We only had her one week shy of four years. It wasn't long enough.
I'm just glad that it didn't happen on our pet sitter's watch, and that I cuddled her and told her how much I loved her before I left for work that day, part of our usual routine. I wish I could have been there for her at the end. She hid her illness well.

I truly hope she didn't suffer, and that she knew she was loved, even though she was alone at the end. Even though she was one of the quieter budgies I've ever met, the absence of budgie-chatter is deafening.

Thomas buried her in what we call our budgie garden -- where Lenny, Ethel, and Jeff Saturday also rest. It's a place in our backyard where the tiger lilies are in the process of growing.She was one of the most gentle souls I've ever met. I miss her so much.

8 comments:

Elizabeth said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I've really enjoyed all your stories about Daphne.

Anonymous said...

That is horrible. I wish you the best.

From Richard and Harley.

Brittney said...

I'm sorry for your loss. My first bird was a budgie name Earl. They are such characters. You gave her a great home.

Pamela said...

Oh, so sorry. What a gift to have said goodbye to her in the morning.

The Homeless Parrot said...

I'm so sorry :(

Anonymous said...

Ah, I'm so sorry to hear about little Daphne. I'm just catching up with my blog subscriptions after a week of family visit. I know you miss her terribly, as I would. I grieve with you! The good thing is that she had the best life in her last 4 years and that's everything.

DweezelJazz said...

Thinking of you very much. Daphne was very loved and that's what's most important in anyone's life -- and that seems most especially true for our little feathered friends.

many best wishes,
Nat and Tony

Scritches.com said...

Oh Mary and Thomas -- how did I miss this post?

I'm so sorry. I loved hearing about Daphne, how quiet she was. Dignified.

I think they know we love them. I think they carry it with them when we're not around, maybe even take that knowledge and love with them when they leave us. You were both so lucky to have each other.

Grief sucks.