Spiders – When we first arrive back at “camp”, there are lots of spiders in the eaves, the corners and on the ceiling.  What amazing little creatures!  I was watching one the other day; such beautiful craftsmanship in those webs.  I tolerate them for as long as I can, but they are eventually dusted out the door.  While they are here (well, the truth is that they never really leave), the webs make excellent traps for the gnats and mosquitoes who make their way inside in the early evenings.

Ducks – The lake presents many opportunities to see God’s love and creativity at work.  This summer there is a mother duck with at least 20 ducklings swimming back and forth in front of the cottage.  The little ones follow the mother’s lead wherever she goes.  Dunking when she dunks, scooting across the water behind her and quacking the whole time. Some appear to be riding on her back.  When they swim close to shore, I run to get my camera, but as soon as I go near them, they swim away in a flash. 

There will be some attrition in their numbers over the summer months.  There is a red fox who visits the shoreline with regularity and this often results in fewer ducklings in the lineup.  That is the way of things here on the lake – the classic circle of life and balance of nature.

Egrets, Canadian Geese and Great Blue Herron – all these birds frequent our end of the lake.  This year the water is exceptionally low, and the birds walk or paddle around picking out choice plants or other juicy morsels.  There is a lesson about patience in watching a Blue Herron stalk a school of fish.  Who needs a television when this amusement is available right out my front door?

In these creatures, I see God’s love and creativity in physical manifestations.  I look for them all the time.  I marvel at them all the time.  Looking and finding help me to stay in constant contact with our Awesome God who loves us all the time – no matter what we do!  Remember God loves you unconditionally.

Terri