This is one of my favorite blogs. Since I am still getting settled in Vermont, I am a little behind. I decided to update this one. There is a comfort in the year-to-year uniformity of my lakeside visitors. In a world with terror and violence at every turn, the peacefulness of this place is a balm given by a loving God.

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. 

Egrets, Canadian Geese and Great Blue Herron – all these birds frequent our end of the lake.  Yesterday, a whole family of Canadian geese swam by with parents and children. This is unusual for this time of the year. The odd duck is back, swimming and eating all by himself. Of course, the mother egret with a whole parcel of baby chicks trailing behind her is here.  Who needs a television when this amusement is available all the time?

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!  Read 1 Chronicles 29:11 New International Version (NIV) and remember God loves you unconditionally.

Terri