Walking through the Good Shepherd P-Patch last Saturday [April 4, 2009. I give the full date for future generations.] I came upon Blackie and Blondie.   Their three protector-handlers told me that these were not flying ducks but running ducks.  And certainly after a quick study it appeared that these elegant ducks with their long legs and long necks and generally lean compositions were not burdened by any thing – like big wings – that might inhibit running.  Although made for it, Blackie and Blondie still did not run around the P-Patch that Saturday afternoon, but neither did they waddle.  They kept near their tenders and were very graceful without exception – another quality of running ducks, I learned.  They stayed in the P-Patch watching for snails and worms but more often settling for grass as their tenders pulled up parsnips nearby.   Asking If I might take a portrait of their happy family in this peaceable kingdom, they allowed.  Asking further if they might write more revealing captions for these portraits, they agreed – that they might.  I have named the group of five portraits, “How To Carry Two Running Ducks Home” because that is where they were soon heading after our meeting.  They live near by the P-Patch.  I learned that running ducks are best carried backward.   But there is more to know about all this, like insights into a running duck’s intelligence – they are not as smart as chickens – which hopefully will be explained and the tenders named and so admired for their duck nurturing and handling.