A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home

True to his word, Lafayette meets Celeste at dawn. When she asks him to take her home, he replies, “Why sure, honey! But now, just how would you suggest I do that?” (205). Proudly, she unveils the gondola. The osprey enthuses, “This basket is amazing! A work of art! And all by your lonesome? You’re amazing, sugar pie!” (206). His praise makes Celeste blush because this is the first time anyone admired her work. Lafayette carefully grips the gondola in his talons, and Celeste climbs aboard.

Lafayette takes off, and Celeste squeals in excitement. She marvels at the creeks, forests, and homes below her as she sees the world from a new perspective. The osprey glides along the river, and Celeste exchanges greetings with a flock of brightly colored parakeets. In a flooded wood, she sees “long, rough-skinned creatures” with snapping jaws (215), which Lafayette explains are alligators. Celeste recognizes Oakley Plantation because of the magnolia tree near the house. The osprey is relieved that they found their destination early in the morning before hunters are about. He observes, “More and more guns shooting into the air these days” (217).