Leigh does bring up a good point re: travel and such. I did get in a few good trips after Beetle passed and before I brought home Pickle. I do have two co-workers that I trust with his care and I'm OK with having him at the vet's for boarding if need be. A reasonable option b/c I have one little parrot. When the flock is bigger, it's that much harder...

But I still think that you should consider a GB. Maybe not today but in a few years

Please, please, PLEASE do NOT be jealous that I have a Patagonian Conure! You want her??? You can HAVE her! She is the NOISIEST creature on earth...very, very clingy to her chosen person...Joe. If he doesn't have his hand on her 24/7 then she's SCREAMS constantly. I swear there were as many Patties at the rescue as B&Gs!!! Patties are totally insane creatures!...at least, our's is.

But deep, deep down inside I love the little monster

oooohhhhhh Eliza pops up and starts trouble!!

Eliza, Im not far from you, I could always sit your fid for a week.

I have a close friend who lives like 10 minutes away from me who comes to take care of my animals for free when I go out of town. She herself has and breeds around 14 parrots and has about 5 or 6 dogs She also boards birds at her home.

That's why she's so lovable!!!

YEA I KNOOOOOW <3 I think they look like a cross between a male Ekkie and a female Alex *hearts*

This is a most disheartening and disappointing desire to find in a bird lovers forum.

I guess I'm lucky to have all my kids and grandkids living in the same neighborhood...Always have a pet sitter.

There you go, it is incredible how much we love our birds regardless of their uniqueness. It is great you live close to help each other to take care of your babies if necessary.