Floating On Quiet Waters

Ducks float on the quiet waters of Hampton Roads.

The world turns softly not to spill its lakes and rivers, The water is held in its arms And the sky is held in the water. What is water, That pours silver, And can hold the sky? - Hilda Conkling

I was told the other day that Hampton Roads means "the coming together of three rivers". I did a little research and learned that the word "roads" is a nautical term meaning "a protected anchorage or safe harbor". Hampton Rhodes is known as the largest natural harbor where the James, Nansemond and Elizabeth Rivers pour into the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. This small area of the "roads" is bordered by private homes and is remarkably quiet with only local marine traffic. On this day the mallard family floated lazily on the water slowly making their way to shore.

Submitted to Photo Tuesday. (end)