Some of you have followed my saga regarding attempts I’ve made over the years to keep fish. Alive. It’s been an area of great desire but little talent. Until Boomer, our last fish, who lasted about four years, albeit having spent about two of those years mysteriously floating upside down – not dead, just off balance. Boomer went to the great fishtank in the sky, or whatever, a few months ago. Cindy was heartbroken, sort of, so for Valentine’s Day I decided to replace her lost friend.
The brother of the owner of a local Thai restaurant is a master fish keeper. His tank in the restaurant is amazing. The water is always crystal clear and his fish truly seemed happy to be in it. Every time I went in there I had overwhelming tank envy. Talking with him one day I realized he was willing to be my personal tank consultant. His name is Apple.
He had me get a 30 gallon tank. It ran for a week before I could put fish in it. It has a heater and extra air bubbles, all new concepts to me. (It’s becoming clearer and clearer why prior fish have not fared so well.) A few weeks ago we walked to the restaurant and picked up five new family members. In honor of Apple, we decided to name them Braeburn, Cortland, Fuji, Gala and Winesap. Cindy’s taking a cautious approach and doesn’t want to bond with them until she’s sure it’s safe. So far, things are looking good. If that changes, I can call Apple.