I've been bad about updating the blog all summer. In part, I guess, because it always seemed I should be outside instead of sitting at the computer. Up here in Hayden there are just too many things to draw you out of the house. Whether it's the Saturday farmer's market, a game of pickleball, or just a nap on the porch, there's always an MANCA ("More Attractive Non-Computer Activity")
Highlights included:
A Spokane Indians game
The local minor league baseball team (A Rockies affiliate) has done a terrific job of teaming with the Spokane Tribe of Indians to build a unique, collaborative, and respectful partnership (read about it here), even including jerseys with the team name written in the tribe's native language of Salish.
The fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
Ever since Joan's parents passed away, we haven't gone back to the Palisades for the 4th. But the celebrations, and especially the fireworks, in Idaho have more than filled the void. Joan's favorite part is going down to the dock to watch the big show. It's like it's happening right above our heads!
Lots of dock time
especially with the dogs. And EVERYONE enjoyed napping at the lake!
The Hayden Lake Hootenanny and N. Idaho County Fair
Classic! . . . 'nuf said.
Pickleball, bocce, & golf, of course.
Bocce on my birthday was an especially great hit because we had Joe (my cousin) with Stephanie and their three kids along with (other cousin) Jon with Allison and a couple of their kids for a really giant group. Also, my mom & Jason (1st cousin, once removed :-) teamed up to crush everyone! Mom's still got some serious skillz!
Some incredible backpacking trips
Joan & Randy got to finally return to the John Muir Trail (after 3 years away). Then, RJ got to steal away for a bucket list trip to Mont Blanc in Europe courtesy of John Kremer (mountain guide supreme), with Dave & El.
Waterskiing
My cousin Jon LOVES to waterski, so he's always game for some early morning playmates. Jon is the best of us. Adam (who was working in Hayden for the summer) is clearly the strongest. And Joan was the best observer. I got up on one ski (thanks to Jon!) and managed not to kill myself, so that was a HUGE win.
That's Jon, getting really low in the water, right in front of mom & dad's house. I love this shot! (Credit to Val for the snap)
A slew of visitors, and some gratuitous dog pictures
It was great to see: Joan's brother Jerry & wife Gwen, Joan's sorority sister Val, our good friends Andy & Julie and Jim & Deanne (& Deanne's mom), Emily, and Matt & Aliza. And we loved having all three dogs at the lake: Ellie, Molly, & Rosie
All in all a terrific, terrific summer. We can't wait to start the next leg of the journey!
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