A Plastic Pet

A new, and excellent hairdresser, in an attempt to know me, asked me whether I kept any animals. Unusual usage to be sure; she was asking if I had any pets. "A plastic bird," I replied.

Yes, my only pet is a plastic bird, sent to me as a pointed joke by my sister, Holly. She believes that my solitary life would be vastly improved if I shared my quarters with a well-mannered dog or cat. I have told her and others who have expressed this view that if I wanted to live with a small dirty animal I would adopt a baby human.

Anyway, Holly sent me a small plastic bird--a red tatinger. Battery operated, it chirps and shakes its tiny head whenever it senses movement. Perfect.