The Birdie Shower for Linda and Ralph was held at the library in East Greenbush, NY. Around 50 people attended and there was a lot of excitement while preparing the tables. The lights were dimmed and our SURPRISE! caught Linda and Ralph completely by surprise. They looked completely confused, looking around as if it was meant for someone else. Their daughter April handed them a copy of our press release to read out loud and they finally realized the surprise was for them. Huge smiles came across their faces.

During my speech I saw their eyes turning to the big pile of red packages with our logo on them. I introduced each Angel that came for the presentation. First up was Meryl from New York City, then Dorothy from New Jersey, next was Rita, and last, my 7 year old grandson Cody was introduced as our newest Junior Angel. He was very proud to be part of this.

Christmas in July

Linda and Ralph were completely overwhelmed with gratitude, they couldn't believe that complete strangers had gone so far to help and just kept shaking their heads in amazement saying things like "These things came from all over the country and Canada!"; "But they dont even know us!" and "Just look at all these beautiful toys!" There were lots of tears, smiles and applause for what the PTA did for them. This was a wonderful experience, for us and everyone there.

Instead of giving everyone a party favor I decided to set up a toy making table. NanC Bird agreed to help out with it by giving them some ideas and instructions. This table was a big hit with all of them, I went there with eight big boxes of supplies and came home with one. Guess there's a lot more toy makers and happy birdies now!

I think everyone walked away that night with something I know I did. What I left with is something that can't be put into a box and wrapped; it was much more than that. It was a wonderful feeling of giving and sharing with others. It was a deep heartfelt gratitude for what the Parrot Toy Angels do for all the little unwanted, mistreated and neglected birds that have finally found a better life through the hands of caring people like Linda and Ralph and so many others like them all across the country. It was the knowledge that there are so many wonderful, giving, selfless people like the Angels who will give their hearts, time and money to help other forgotten ones that need something to make their life just a little better. It was also the realization that there are so many out there that care enough to go that extra step to help and to quote Linda "it's all for the love of birds". ♥

Adriane is the owner of ParrotNutz Treats LLC, and while she doesn't make toys, is a big contributor to the Angel cause. Not only does she donate her homemade birdie treats to our Angel projects, a portion of the sales on her site is donated to the Parrot Toy Angels. ParrotNutz also created the mixes and mashes sold on the Parrot Toy Angels website.

This Angel's life isn't all work though. She can often be found atop her horse going for a relaxing ride. Adriane is also an excellent photographer, and with 6 birds, a dog, and a horse she has plenty of subjects for her pictures.

When asked why she wanted to become an Angel, Adriane says she wants to Pay it Forward by helping birds and their owners/caregivers. Her own birds have enriched her life and she is most happy when she can do something to improve the life of a bird less fortunate.