It was a beautiful day, and the van was piled with towels from the beach. I did not want a mess in my clean van today.
As we stepped outside from the air conditioned comfort of Titcomb’s Book Store, we were greeted by a friendly character in the parking lot. Walking boldly toward us was the most beautiful pigeon I had ever seen. His silky feathers were an iridescent green, gold and silver. His feet were a blend of purples, pinks and blues, as he were wearing party shoes. In my lifetime, I had seen hundreds of the pigeons. Kendyl and Carson, being Cape Cod Kids, never had the opportunity to see a pigeon up close and personal. We all squatted down for a closer look.
After several minutes of talking to, and nearly touching the pigeon, we gave in to the scorching heat and headed for the van. As Carson and Kendyl scrambled to their towel-laden seats, the pigeon looked on with curious eyes at their activity.
As if sensing our imminent departure, he calmly hopped into the minivan alongside my children. Their reaction was a mixed bag of complete surprise, utter fascination, genuine humor and a healthy fear.
I can still see the look on Kendyl’s face as she pleaded for me to remove the hitchhiker. Carson was more intent on luring our new friend deeper into the cabin. After a few minutes of giggles, whimpers and begging, I gently shooed the pigeon back onto the parking lot.
Undeterred, the fine-feathered opportunist proceeded to hop onto the driver’s side floorboards as I climbed in. He nibbled at the Jibbitz on my Croc, looked me in the eye, and then hopped out one final time.
Perhaps, when we visit Titcombs again next year, we will be reunited with our birdy buddy.
