Mallards in the Morning

May 24, 2011

Yes, 5:30 AM is a bit early to be out walking. And let me tell you this: the birds are singing so sweetly at that hour, the air is cool and fresh and damp, the pink in the sky is soft, and Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are cautiously paddling about in the water, sending ripples of contentment through the moon reflection. Ah, this is a delightful time to walk–in the quiet morning, before human noises encroach, I am able to engage in a mindfulness practice that invites all my senses to participate.

I smell the richness of spring: damp earth, sweetness of the wildflowers, strong sage aroma, wet grasses; I see the sunrise, the soft green of the tender oak leaves, the white of the dogwood flower, the deep purple of the lupine; I feel the cool morning air and the gentle breeze; I hear the birds and am able to differentiate a few special songs; and I taste, metaphorically speaking, the delicious flavors of the morning: gratitude, joy, and reverence.

The Mallards return every year–that they become eternal mates is endearing–to bring new life to the world. They are very timid, aware of their precarious situation in the forest, and do not let me or Grace get too close, which makes that that much more precious to me. I walk, I reflect, I feel my heart filling with calm peacefulness and my mind quietly savoring the details of this ordinary magnificence.

What has brought you joy and calm on this glorious morning?

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Robin Mallery

Robin Mallery is passionate about food! Starting from where and how it's grown, to how far that food travels to the dinner table, to how it is prepared and savored...Robin blends shopping, cooking, and eating tips with her unique Kitchen Zen and mindful meals approach to enjoying real food.

While you are waiting for her to finish the upcoming book, "Kitchen Zen: The Journey to Nourish Body and Soul in Our Changing World", you can find Robin's sporadic blog posts here or on FaceBook.