A few weeks ago, we did some quick home improvement around our house. We had a 'temporary' front stoop for about 5 years. When a house down the street got a face lift, we took their old 8x10 back deck and made a new front porch. The deck had railing. I didn't care for them, so we detached the railing and left just the platform and steps.

Upon inspection, a neighbor pointed out, "Your porch needs railing." I explained that since there were no children to be watched over, there was really no need for it. My neighbor continued, "But what is it without railing? Just an open platform."

Last night as I sat on my new front "platform" talking on the phone, it occurred to me. That's exactly what I want: OPEN PLATFORM. No railing to bind me in.

Jason and I appreciate our unfettered, uncomplicated lifestyle. We meet all our responsibilities with time to spare. We go out for coffee at 9:30 in the evening to the next town 45 minutes away, because we can. We take naps from 8:30 -10 pm, then stay up watching movies until 2 am, because we can. With very little notice, we throw some clothes in a backpack and take off on road trips, because we can.

No, dear neighbor, you are mistaken. Neither my porch, nor my life need railing.