Every spring the water feature around my two-building complex called Waterfront Pearl becomes a nursery for Mallard ducks.
It is always a joy to see them arrive and watch as the parents teach the babies the survival skills they will need too soon. Every spring our building engineer strategically places a couple of boards in our water feature to enable the babies to walk up and out of the water. When they are a bit older and larger, the ramps will disappear.
What is lifting your spirits?
Be strong. Be patient. Be kind.
Mine has to do with baby birds as well. There is a hummingbird nest in the climbing rose right next to my studio door. For awhile I saw the mama sitting there, always, did she ever need a break? Then I didn’t see her. Ever. I was getting worried when I noticed two tiny needle like beaks sticking straight up. Sometimes they moved ever so slightly but for the most part they are good at keeping still and hiding when home alone. Today I saw the tops of their heads and a little eye peeking over the side of the nest. They are growing quickly and I will miss watching the little family but having them there has truly lifted my spirits. I feel honored that they trust us and feel safe enough to nest in a place where I can watch.
That trust does feel like an honor! How lovely! I can visualize them there now. Happy watching.
Fun! I spent two hours today attempting to photograph the Baltimore Oriole who is sipping from my hummingbird feeder! The feeder was hand-painted and gifted to me by a friend. I have yet to get a photo, but will continue my quest—it is time well spent!
Oh, nice! Lots of warm memories for you there. Let me know when you finally get an image of the bird! Good luck.