The Bayou Ostrich

  Kids can say the funniest things.  For the past few years, Mark and I have been quoting our little granddaughter's sayings.  Two quotes have stuck more than the rest.  One, "Yummm!  Apples!" is our catch phrase whenever something is yummy!  Mary Ruth said this when we sent a box of citrus fruit to Georgia for the family to enjoy.  When her mommy, Joanna, asked her what was in the box, Mary Ruth said "Yummm!  Apples!  We have said it and giggled over it ever since.  The other most quoted Mary Ruth phrase is "First!  We have to put on our boots!"  This was something she said when she saw her first snow.  Before going out to play, she knew the boots would keep her feet warm.  Smart little girl!  Mark and I say this whenever we are prioritizing things.  "First!  We have to put on our boots!"  The phrase seems to help get things straight.

  Since their move to a faraway island, I have been sending the grandlittles daily photographs of their dog, PJ.  Mr. PJ came to live with us until their return.  I did not want the kids to forget the beloved friend so each day, a new photo is sent.  Today, Mr. PJ was not overly sure of an approaching heron.  He had turned to look at me with a bewildered expression on his face.  With the heron in the background, it was the perfect picture to send.  When Mary Ruth saw the photograph, she said "An ostrich!"  That sweet little girl has just re-identified my heron for me.  Now, we have a Bayou Ostrich!   I will probably never look at a Great Blue Heron again without thinking "An ostrich!"  I always thought we had some pretty unique birds roaming about the Bayou and now I am sure of it. 

  Speaking of the Bayou Ostrich, he seems to be warming up to Mr. PJ.  For several days, he was not sure that the old dog would not chase him.  Now, the bird comes to grab minnows within a few feet of the dog.  We are making progress.  You just have to love the critters of the Bayou...even if they have unusual names!  Mary Ruth brings so much joy by naming them!