We’re in the new apartment with our Parrot, Lois. She’s adjusted better than my wife and me. She’s taking pistachios from my hand and saying, “I love you,” just like she did in the old place. She stretches her wings and forages on the cage floor for the food she threw out of her bowl earlier this morning.

Parrots are resilient creatures who adapt well to new environments. Since they mostly live in cages, their environment is much like a mobile home: the amenities stay the same, with favorite toys, a roll of toilet paper, and a stable perch. She says my name, and I reply, “I love you, Lois. You’re the sweety peety of the world! You’re phenomenal! You’re incredible! You’re fantastic! You’re beautiful!” The feathers on her neck puff out with the last part, and she shakes her head in joy.

I can’t imagine a better way to begin my day.