Well, with the coming of July comes the birthdate of my little Zazu. July 5th he will be 11 years old.

I just can't believe that he's been my companion for that long. Other than my family members, I don't believe I can say that about anyone else on this planet. That's a big thing.

Zazu has also taught me about unconditional love and affection. Zazu has his grumpy days just like any human does. But the fact is, no matter how I'm feeling, looking, or acting, Zazu loves me. In fact, in his eyes I hang the moon. His full devotion is for me. He misses me and is sad when I'm away. He is happy when i am finally home. He likes to show off for me, and loves to snuggle and get "cuddles" (head/neck rubbing).

I'm sure some of you are probably thinking, "what is this stupid girl going off about? Some dumb bird?" But these people merely do not understand. Most people talk of these things about a dog, but of a bird? What people don't understand is that birds, like most animals, can feel emotions and have feelings. I truly believe that they can feel love, jealousy, joy, loneliness, anguish, etc. And nothing anyone says to me will make me believe different.

I am reading a very wonderful book called Alex & Me about a women and her beloved African Grey parrot, Alex. Together they proved, through scientific research, that our feathered companions have much more cognitive and problem solving abilities than ever thought possible. And, of course, in these 31 years they developed a very strong friendship.

Now, I'm not expecting Zazu to live 31 years. But 11 years is a long time. I'm only 24. 11 years is just a little less than half of my whole life. Zazu's been there through a lot.

God bless those little critters. And happy birthday dear baby.