A Letter from the Houseboat
1Dear Grandpa Joe,
Last Saturday, Mom and I arrived at Aunt Lucia's houseboat. It floats on a wide, slow river. When I stepped onto the deck, the whole boat rocked a little, and I grabbed the rail. Aunt Lucia laughed and helped me carry my bag inside.
2Life on a houseboat is different from life in our apartment. Every morning, I wake up to the sound of water against the sides. The kitchen is tiny, so Aunt Lucia cooks one big pot of oatmeal for all of us. After breakfast, I sweep the deck, and Mom checks the ropes that tie the boat to the dock.
3Yesterday, a heron landed at the edge of the dock. It stood on one leg and stared into the water for a long time. Suddenly, it dipped its long beak into the water and snatched a tiny fish. Then it flapped away over the river. I clapped so hard that Mom jumped!
4Tomorrow, we will paddle a canoe to the little island across the river. Aunt Lucia will pack sandwiches, and I will look for turtles on the logs. Next Sunday, I will tell you all about it when I visit you.
Love,
Nia