I keep thinking that summer is going to arrive in Idaho. So far, we have mostly seen sub normal temperatures and lots of rain. The forest is that shade of green that is difficult to describe, it is iridescent, luminous colors that seem to change from every angle. One source suggested it is almost neon. You have to see it to really appreciate the beauty. To add to the image, the rain brings a “unique, earthy smell”, named by Australian scientists, Petrichor, especially pungent in the forest. Add the nightly, thunder storms that boom in the valleys and a bit of lightning to frighten my poor dog. It was an exciting week in McCall.
Hank is at Paradise Point church camp with his buddies, first time away from home on his own for an extended period of time. You can send your campers a text message each morning which the counselors print off and distribute. No electronics for an entire week. They do post pictures each day and you can clearly see that the kids are having so much fun. The camp is on the lake, so kayaking, canoeing, swimming happen in the very chilly water. The camp is designed to keep them entertained, enlightened as campers build friendships and leadership skills. Hank’s mom, pointed out the Camp’s inclusivity Statement. “ Paradise Point values and respects the dignity of all individuals, which includes all races, denominations, gender identification, and sexual orientation.” Hallelujah to them!!
Meanwhile our six year old-Margie is hanging out with us. Wednesday she called for a hike as the day’s main activity. I got to choose the route, we shall go to Goose Creek Falls, and if we survive the very steep climb out of the canyon, to Brundage for lunch. The three mile round trip is a moderate climb, or so it says. The rather steep descent follows a well maintained trail and after a mile you cross the bridge over Goose Creek, don’t stop there. Another half a mile and you can finally see what you have been hearing, a very impressive set of falls. The pictures probably does not do it justice.
A stop for a snack and water and we started back to the trail head. Oooma, Margie’s grandmother got a head start and cleverly drew arrows, pictures, Margie’s initials, and some other creative things on the steep ascent in the path. Margie ran up the trail, periodically stopping to draw her own symbols. I was so impressed, not sure I could have carried her up that slope. Before we knew it we were back at the car. The energy and enthusiasm of our children is priceless.
We celebrate Independence Day on July 4. It seems important to remember the sacrifices made to create a nation. Today we wage a battle with those who want to limit the rights promised in our constitution. It would be a better country if our citizens would live by the Paradise Point’s commitment to “respect for the dignity of all individuals.”
Mike
Goose Creek
