In Memory of Merlin

I'll never forget the first time I ever saw a Military Macaw.
His name was Merlin "Merl" for short.

I'll never forget that beautiful red band of feather across your beak.
I remember thinking; I never saw a more beautiful bird.

I'll never forget how I fell in love with you the first time I saw you.

I'll never forget the first time I touched you.

I'll never forget the first time I held you.

I'll never forget the funny way you bobbed your head and begged for
attention, then picked your foot up hoping someone would stick their
arm under it and hold you.

I will really never forget the first time you let me preen you that was a very
special moment for me.

I'll never forget wanting to take you home, and thinking I just wasn't ready
yet for a magnificent bird like you.

I'll never forget the day they told me you had a new home.

I'll never forget feeling sad but happy at the same time that you found a
home.

I'll never forget the day I visited the shelter and you were gone. I missed you.

I'll never forget the day Sandi told me you died.

I'll never forget the drive home that day.
Thinking about you as I was driving.
I visualized you flying free and full of joy.
And I started to cry.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to know you and interact with you.

Thank you for teaching me about the gift birds give to us

The gift of allowing US into your lives.