I had a realization this morning: nothing is stronger than a mother’s bond. I (re-)discovered this earlier today when Chris called (he snapped the picture) to let me know that one of our new ducklings in the neighborhood had fallen into the storm drain in our street.

After thinking like MacGyver, I created a net using a incense stick, a can of silly string and some duct tape (actually it was a coathanger, some netting and duct tape), and headed to the drain. I also took some bread and water down just in case. After feeding the little one I attempted to capture it with the net, however the little guy (I think it was a girl duck by it’s coloring) decided that she wanted to stay there (or she was frightened by this huge white thing).

Finally, momma duck and the other ducklings headed back up towards the drain, and after some coaxing of momma duck to make a noise, the little stuck duck started chirping constantly. Momma duck knew that the little one was there, but couldn’t quite figure out where. Momma duck (and ducklings) wandered across the road, and as they did, the little one become visible, and I snatched her up with the net. Little duck was not happy at this, however as I got closer to momma duck to release her, I actually felt the excitement of the little duck. When I put her on the ground, she took off towards momma real fast. As momma duck quacked, I took that to mean thanks (of course, it could have also meant get the hell away from me). Naturally as I walked the ducks back to the pond, I spent the next few minutes chatting with the ducks explaining the dangers of storm drains. I think they understood.

I got some news about my visa today, and it was positive (at least that is how I took it). Still playing the waiting game, but at least I know that it’s in the queue.

… no more Sicily.

Sad news today as I found out that Estelle Getty died. She was 84.

I went along with Chris and our friends, Bobby & Ian to see Mamma Mia! over the weekend. Not having seen the stage musical I was not really sure what to expect, nor had I seen (read) how the music had been interwoven into the story. I thought it was brilliant!

I think my two most favorite songs (based on lyrics) were “Our Last Summer” and “The Winner Takes It All” from the movie. The song Donna (Meryl Streep) sings about Sophie (”Slipping Through My Fingers“) is also up there amongst the favorites.

The cinematography of the film is spectacular, and makes me want to go visit that part of Greece (well any part really), and the singing talents of all the cast, especially Amanda Seyfried and Meryl Streep. Go see it!