Young Gull Getting Its Picture Took

"But, Ma, I don't wanna."
"Stop shaking your head. Be still for the man."
"But I just woke up."
"You never preen anyway."
"But I want to look pretty."
"You're too young to look pretty. And he doesn't care."
"He doesn't want me to look pretty?"
"He doesn't know what pretty is for us. He just wants a good look."
"That's creepy, Ma. Why should we do what he wants?"
"He might throw us something we can eat."
"What if he doesn't?"
"Oh, well, I'll decorate his cap."
"Good. I hope he doesn't throw us anything."
"Now, be quiet, girl, and be still."
"Okay, Ma."

2 October 2026
Texas Jim
Prospect, Nova Scotia