Angel Toys For Angels

Saturday, March 4, 2006 came quickly for myself and Andrea Frederick as we prepared for the big PTA toy delivery to Phyllis Real at her home about 50 miles north of Denver, Colorado. We both hurriedly rushed to put finishing touches on the last of our own donation toys for Phyllis and contemplated just how we would manage to load and deliver such a huge pile of boxes; gifts for a woman whose energy and resources had been stretched to the max caring for many unwanted, homeless birds. Andrea and I had few clues as to the amazing quality of the beautiful toys, lovingly handcrafted by Parrot Toy Angel members from across the country. Phyllis' flock consisted of every size bird imaginable and there were toys aplenty for each.

We arrived at Phyllis' home around 11:00 and began to unload, carrying box after box, while Phyllis stood in awe. With help from two curious feathered friends, we anxiously opened each box, laying them out to admire and take pictures. There were so many, the sheer numbers were amazing. Phyllis was overcome with emotion as she talked about what birds might enjoy which toys. It was obvious to all three of us, the amount of love and attention to detail that had gone into each and every toy, no matter the size. There were giant swings for the macaws and colorful "chewables" for the big 'toos. The amazons were certainly not overlooked in the bounty and Phyllis' Goffins 'Toos could create plenty of mischief with the bells, balls, and blocks which adorned the many mid-size toys. The finely crafted small toys would be suitable for Phyllis' elderly cockatiels and the budgies would have a wide array of tiny ones from which to choose.

For both Andrea and I, this was our first PTA toy delivery and the experience brought a flood of tears from all of us. From Phyllis, the tears of joy showed a deep appreciation that complete strangers would care so much about birds they'd never met, and for a woman struggling just to provide their basic necessities. For Andrea and myself, I believe tears were from the unspoken realization that these birds might no longer be adequately cared for in their present circumstances. On the ride home we didn't speak of it, but we both knew help was needed, and quickly.

Help soon came in the form of volunteers and staff from a well-respected parrot adoption and sanctuary organization located near Denver. The Gabriel Foundation agreed to foster and find homes for the adoptable members of Phyllis' flock and to give sanctuary to those with special needs. Many birds and their new toys were transported to the Foundation's facility where they await loving new homes.

Drawing on her love for tinkering, she started making pet toys as a hobby. This hobby soon turned into a very lucrative business, doing something she really enjoys and is very good at.

Although she is a very busy woman, her life isn't all work. Many days you can find Christena at the race track. No, not the horse track! At the drag races, speeding to victory in her very own souped up Saturn.

When leaves have fallen on the ground
And nuts and apples gathered in,
The sunny skies make way for clouds
As winter makes his way back in.

Then Angels speak,
"My children dear,
Thanksgiving Day is very near,
And as this year comes to an end
Remember all our feathered friends.
And you must do what you do best:
To give up time when you would rest.
You know your hearts will fill with joy
By gifting one bird with a toy."