Duck Time

As many of you know, we don't have a car, so my commute has involved a lot of walking and occasional use of the bus system.  My walk used to take me through the city - which is ok, I rather like Wellington - but there quite a few stoplights and way too many smokers who spend more time holding their cancer sticks while walking than standing out of the way.  

With the new job came a new commute path along the beautiful Wellington harbor.  The walking path is huge and full of walkers, runners, cyclists and the random skateboarder.  The best part of my commute - by far - is the time I spend saying hello to all the ducks that hang out in areas near the harbor.  I always make sure to allow for my 'duck time', and I'm certain it is why I'm in such a good mood on the days I walk in.

Now that Darren works just a block from my office, we walk in together.  The first part of our commute takes us through Waitangi Park, which has dedicated wetlands.  On the warmer mornings (which are becoming very rare now!), there are heaps of ducks swimming around between the tall grassy areas.  Yesterday there was just the lone duck - 

Just to be sure, we checked each section...

...until we found a group of duckies right before the bridge linking the park with the harbor path.  These guys swam super fast to come say hello to us!  Sadly, I forgot to bring bread.

As we cross the bridge, we look out on the little beach area - there are always ducks sleeping or preening each morning...

...and seagulls.

We continue our walk along the harbor - even though it's winter, the mornings have been quite beautiful.

Finally, we check the area behind Te Papa for any last duckies...

...before continuing on our way to work.

Is there any part of your morning commute that makes your day better?