"Lime"

Lime the parakeet, beloved pet and member of our family for the past year, three months and 17 days, died suddenly January 26th of unknown causes. She was preceded in death by Lauren the fish, Cherry the tree frog, and Bunny Hopper the rabbit. She is survived by Howie, our Italian greyhound, Tiny Jim the beta fish, and her dear cage mate and friend, Blueberry. Her life was full of fun with the children, music, and happiness. Her sweet tweets, little kisses, and occasional squawks will be missed by all. Private services were performed yesterday with her family.



Yesterday, while I was showering, Nate and Julia came into the bathroom with some sad news. Julia was cradling Lime's little body in her hands and they told me she had died. What a tragic day it was for Julia, and the rest of the family! So sad! It breaks your heart as a parent when you see your child hurting so much. I wish they never had to feel that kind of pain or sadness. I know it's a valuable lesson in love and loss, but it just hurts my heart!

At one point when we were talking yesterday, I was hugging Julia and Liliana came up to us and said, "I'm sad about Lime. And I'm worried about Julia. Heavenly Father can help." I just thought that was so sweet and sincere.

Julia wrapped her in a paper towel and we placed her in a paper bag. We all gathered around and said something kind about Lime and her life. Julia said through tears and choked sobs, "She was always playful --this is too hard--she was playful and sweet." Liliana thought she was a nice bird. Then, we buried her next to Bunny Hopper, in the flower bed on the side of the house.

We'll all miss Lime. She really was a great pet! Julia's pain was eased with a trip to the local pet store. She said she'll always miss Lime and wished she could have her back. Nate said that in the car on the way to the pet store yesterday, she even said, "I miss Lime so much! I know I shouldn't say this, but I would give my life to get Lime back again." Nate, not wanting to discredit her feelings, said how he knew she was sad about Lime and he understood how she felt. Then he added that we were sure happy to have her here. Talk about breaking your heart! When he told me that, it made me cry!

At the pet store, after much deliberation, Julia chose a White's tree frog (a.k.a. a "dumpy" tree frog, or a "smiley" tree frog). The frog doesn't take the place of Lime in Julia's heart, but she sure does help to ease the pain. We think Lime is in heaven with Bunny Hopper (and the others) now, probably being taken care of by Steve Irwin himself!