Ginny,
Seems to me that you are in need of a rain garden. See the link for a good description. It will probably still require some digging but I think that is the best idea for your situation.

Here is a link that might be useful: Rain Garden

I have the same problem - maybe more so. I've changed my mind about a rain garden. I think what I need is a bioswale. It's essentially a landscaped ditch. It holds more water than a rain garden, which is what I need.

Jenion

Just popping in because I'm thinking about making a rain garden in our back yard. I was a little surprised there's not a forum for one already. We have a spot on the north side of our house that stays soggy after a rain, but isn't uniformly wet the rest of the time. The last of sunlight may be contributing to the problem.

I am going to pop in here and give you all a list that I think would be helpful to you in this matter.
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/PLANTANSWERS/flowers/lily2.html

Hey aquawise, many thanks for the link!
Ginny