Watching an adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, “The Ugly Duckling” as a child, I would scold the animated animals for making fun of how different this little one looked. In today’s words, the duckling was a victim of bullying. This little one suffered verbal abuse from all the other animals because it appeared differently.
The story takes a turn when the “ugly duckling” matures into a beautiful swan. A story of personal transformation some say. Even as a child, I noticed that treating anyone differently just because they may not resemble others, was wrong. I am glad that the story told gave way to a happy ending, showing an example that with perseverance, anyone can evolve into a creature of beauty.
If ever in Minnesota in February or March:
There is a public area to observe the swans – Monticello Swan Park. Please consider making a donation to carry on what Sheila Lawrence stared.
Enjoy
Find the Beauty 
Reblogged this on North America Bonsai Association.
The swan is my favorite animal. I would absolutely love to visit this place. It would be heaven.
Your pictures are terrific Cynthia! Loved them! 🙂
Thank you!
Terrific photos and post Cynthia 🙂 I hope Dan isn’t allergic to bees (yikes) 🙂
Those are swallow nests…those would be some gigantic bees 🙂 I am not allergic to bees though.
They look like hornets nests Dan, but I’m glad you’re not allergic anyway 🙂
Wonderful swan photos honey. That is truly and epic place to view and photograph swans.
Absolutely stunning photos, as always, and a very inspiring take on the ugly duckling!!!
My daughter in-law is from Duluth Minnesota. We were up there a couple years back when the two were married. Very beautiful!!! Albeit a little too cold for my taste 😊!
These are wonderful, Cynthia. I am especially struck by the close-ups…their necks and beaks in wonderful patterns. Terrific set. I see you were Freshly Pressed… congrats!
Thank you jane!
Love the shots of them flying (or starting to). They are lovely!
Thank you!