I would like to thank "Mr. Bluebelly," our family's pet parakeet, for teaching me the following life lessons.

1. When our wings aren't clipped, there is no limit to how high we can fly.

2. Eat only small portions at a time, but frequently throughout the day. Our bodies can better digest small portions, providing us with more consistent energy.

3. Fly (exercise) just for the fun of it!

4. Choose carefully the company you keep. The "birds of a feather" philosophy.

5. Play with your toys! They aren't there to be used "someday," but rather to be enjoyed today.

6. Perch yourself somewhere for a moment just to rest and enjoy your surroundings.

7. Sing loudly and often. It is a great breathing exercise and fun.

8. Splash all you want while bathing! Water cleans up easily, or evaporates.

9. When others are rattling your cage, fly to a quiet place.

10. Every day, look into the mirror and say, "I love you, yes I do."