With Abbi off at training camp, the house feels a little quieter. No paws tapping on the floor, no playful nudges for attention, no shepherd eyes following every move Dad makes. But for one feathered family member, this temporary change has been nothing short of delightful.

Julius the cockatoo has officially claimed the role of “only child” and he’s milking it for all it’s worth.

This morning, while Dad enjoyed a snack, Julius swooped in with perfect timing and snagged a chip. With the crunch echoing proudly and a gleam of mischief in his eyes, he made it clear: life without Abbi around means more chips for me. There’s something both comical and endearing about the way Julius carries himself when he’s the star of the show. He struts a little taller, squawks a little louder, and seems to relish the extra one-on-one attention. And though he’ll never admit it, you can tell he misses his furry sister just a bit—it just doesn’t stop him from enjoying the perks of being the “only kid” for now.

So, while Abbi is busy learning and growing, Julius is reminding us of all that sometimes joy comes in the simplest things a crunchy chip, a quiet house, and the temporary thrill of being the center of Mama and Dad's world.