Feeding the Ducks, Feeding the Soul

I ran for the first time in almost 2 months. I always seem to take a break after CC season and this break ended up lasted longer than planned. I ran 3 miles and lifted a little, and now I am sore. Tuks enjoyed getting back to her old stomping ground with the other kids at the Y.

Then later today we went with our neighbor A to feed some nearby mallard and butler/mallard mix ducks that hang around in a pond below a dam. A feeds then every winter and it is something he wanted to share with Tuki. I couldn't say no. Philosophically, I struggle with feeding wildlife since they become too dependent on the supplemental food and ultimately it changes their habits. The facts say don't feed, but then you have to consider the human factor and the enjoyment and how maybe it will have a long term positive effect on future generations because they were able to get so close to a wild animal. I know there never is an easy answer.

This kid has no fear of any animals. I love that about her, but now I need to watch for an anti-kid friendly animal because she is not old enough to understand how to approach them hesitantly until she can read their posture.

The pictures and the look on her face, and A's face says it all. They enjoy each other and since Tuk's grandpa passed away long before she was born, I am hoping A will take that spot for her. So far, so good!!