Congratulations Logan! Boy, did you take me by surprise!! I've ALWAYS wanted a bird. But, the cats and dogs being around always did concern me. Especially since all of the parrot owners I know of allow their birds to be out of their cage quite frequently. Seems they are just not the type of birds that like to be continually confined in their cages. But, I know you'll be very careful; especially if Butter's around!! And they are very demanding in the "attention" dept. as we have read on Pet Talks Parrot POTD'S!! Helen is going to be SO thrilled!! What a great, living, loving gift! And long-lived for sure! That's a good thing! Happy to hear that Phoebe is hanging in there. Bless her little Hammie heart I don't have any knowledge really, as to their care though. I know there are lots of websites re: Cockatiel care and message boards, as I already considered getting one myself before I got my piggie, Squeekers!! Yup, sounds like a lot of reading is on the menu for you and Helen!! Isn't having a "new one" such fun!! I'm so happy for you two. Keep us updated. I have a feeling we'll be seeing some pics very soon! Now, a name! You have to give us a brief personality profile first!!