There are few places I would rather spend a warm spring day than on the deck. Because we live on the water, we are in flood zone A and have that risk. Yet, the risk is worth the rewards. Almost everything on our deck rocks or glides, and while swinging I generally enjoy coffee, a good book, or more often the view.

Migratory birds abound. Goslings and baby ducks will soon appear, trying their webbed feet on the water with mom and dad as guides. The fish crane is a frequent visitor to the bank. Other birds abound- blue jays, robins, cardinals, etc.

The bank beavers, muskrat and mink will soon bear their young and will be seen darting to and fro across the waters doing whatever it is beaver, muskrat and mink do.

Though there is a road out front our main passerbyes are either neighbors or campers going down the road to visit the campground on the water, will they too can enjoy waterfront living -even if only for a few days.


Otherwise, the waterfront is ours.

And the sign greeting guests says it all, "Lazy Hog Inn," because once you sit down, you never want to get up again.

Everyone should live on the water.

On Penns Creek

Photo: Penns Creek, New Berlin, PA

Part of our plan to live life more fully included downsizing to a smaller house. Our bungalow is just the right size for three and sits right on the water. I have long been attracted to water and find I need to be near it. It offers me a sence of peace -for whatever reason.

The wrap around deck and front porch have several gliding and rocking seating pieces to sit upon and watch the water from. Staring at moving water, much like watching a fire burn, puts you in an almost transelike state; totally relaxed.

The bank beavers and muskrats will soon be bearing their young. Geese are nesting on the banks. The fish crane relaxes in the shallows. Birds of every variety are returning from their summer homes.

Though we spend much time playing in the water -as do our three dogs, this year we hope to enjoy more time on the water.

Our 2 new kayaks sit in the garage. Paddles have been ordered online. As soon as the weather warms, we will set out exploring the waterway that leads to the Susquehanna River (though I think we'll save river kayaking until we are a bit more advanced).