I Told You Three Times!

 

"It's a stretch," said the Green Heron, settling into the simplified routine of post-parenthood.

"I  worked my beak to the bone providing for those fledglings and showing them the ways of the world."

"Now I can settle back in my own corner of the realm while the next generation finds theirs."

"After all, it's a big pond with plenty of fish for everybody. All the elements for a good life. We chose well."

"There's no need to feel crowded. Everybody understands."

"Wait a minute. What's that? One of those youngsters taking a territorial shortcut?"

"Ha. I guess he didn't believe me the first time. There aren't any shortcuts outside the nest."

"That's right. Get a good look around from up there and figure things out."

"Unbelievable! Back again? I already told him twice."

"I didn't plan to have to get rough about this, but enough is enough!"

"I'm TELLING YOU for the last time." And that did it.

"It's enough to ruffle a bird's feathers....Well, I might have pushed back a little myself at that age."