On Thin Ice?

"On thin ice" generally means a risky or uncertain situation.

But here it just means that we have had a bit of cold weather lately and the local pond is partly covered in ice; the ducks keep part of the pond ice-free for feeding and strut, preen and sleep on the rest.

The sky was clear and the early afternoon light was creating beautiful reflections as well, a bonus. The mallard below had just scooped up some water.

This pair at the edge of the ice.

This series of three pictures of a drake first preening, then fanning its feathers, then taking a drink of the thin layer of water on top of the ice.

 "Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate."  Albert Schweitzer

The ice had captured bubbles, reeds and leaves:

"Those who cannot understand how to put their thoughts on ice should not enter into the heat of debate."  Friedrich Nietzsche 

The open water was reflecting the sky and greens and orange browns of the surrounding trees as well as the birds. Below an American Widgeon.

"In skating over thin ice our safety is in our speed." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Mallards in the open water, first the male and then the female, she appeared to me to be smiling.

 

 "It's a strange world of language in which skating on thin ice can get you into hot water." Franklin P. Jones

Striking a pose on top of the ice.

...and going for a waddle, in this series, she nearly slips in the second picture, then sort of glares at me and turns her back and wanders off.

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest." Confucius 

Back at home, here is the ice covered gargoyle in our backyard fountain.

I started a few paintings this week, but none are ready for the big reveal.

Thank you for dropping by, Happy Whimsy Wednesday, until next week.....................