Mama Mallard and her Ducklings

It's kind of funny. . . we see mallard ducks a lot, yet we don't tire of seeing them. We've taken picture after picture of the mallards at the park. . . waddling along the shore of the lake, sitting on the gravel or on a fallen tree in the water with their heads buried in their feathers, swimming in groups in circles going round and round, ducking their heads in the water. . .

For me, I think part of the joy of seeing mallard ducks is that they have a lovely sense of familiarity about them because we see that type of bird so often.  Also, though, for me seeing them brings back warm memories of growing up, of watching ducks and feeding them with my parents. When I was little my parents and I used to bring stale bread and go to the park near our house and feed them. Now we know that is not good for the ducks, and the signs at parks ask us not to do that, so I can't share that part of the experience with my children. I can however, share the experience of watching the sweet mallard ducks with them. The mallards are so cute with their big bills, big orange feet, and the loud quack of the females. We think the mama mallards sound so much like a laugh, we can't help but laugh along with them!

And especially it's wonderful to see ducklings!!  Babies are the sweetest thing, and to see a nurturing mom caring for her little ones is priceless.  My 10-year-old daughter took this sweet series of pictures at the park last week. The mama's little ducklings were staying near her, and for awhile at least three of her ducklings were hiding underneath her! She looked like such a patient and content mama, sitting there so pleased and proud.

the ducklings are sheltered underneath their mama's wings

Seeing them under this mama's wings reminded me of how we can find safety under the shelter of our Heavenly Father's wings, not literal wings of course, but the picture and meaning the words paint is beautiful. . .

Psalm 17:8
Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings
Psalm 36:7
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

Psalm 63:7
Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.

Have a wonderful Sunday!