Momma duck and duckling

Last year Momma duck had seven ducklings, born in a thunderstorm on 4th July. The whole neighbourhood was ecstatic. Over the course of a week all of these sweet creatures developed characters and were swimming in the sea from day one. By the end of week two they had all disappeared - eaten by gulls we imagine. So sad.

So here we go again - what's to do? Harden your heart against the impermanence of things? Or love them twice as much knowing they might not be here for long? Just adore them I think ......