Monday, July 16, 2007

Idaho

Thursday Dave picked me up from work and we hopped on a plane for Spokane. With a quick layover in Phoenix we were there and headed for another 70 miles up and over to Sandpoint, ID. A friend that I ride with has a fabulous 165 acre ranch there and invited us to stay the weekend. We arrived around midnight to the ranch so we really couldn't see much and headed straight to bed.

We woke up the Friday morning and peered out the window to a gorgeous sight! The grounds were immaculate and absolutely beautiful! Allen gave us a guided tour of the ranch. We were in awe of the beauty. We even saw a deer and fawn cross right in front of us!

One of the pastures


A new born calf on the ranch


We loved all the green!!!


Then it was off to the lake for some boating. The boat was awesome. It felt like we were soaring over the water. The weather was really hot, but on the lake it was perfect.

Dave steering the boat


A couple of many scenic view from the lake


We even saw a bald eagle fly just above us!

In the afternoon we headed over to the near by ski resort and took a ski lift up the mountain to take in the views.



We had an amazing steak dinner with Allen and his brother Todd before sitting on the deck to enjoy the sunset. I even learned how to make a new dessert!



Saturday morning while Dave and I enjoyed our breakfast on the deck we heard the cattle calling. It sounded like something might have been wrong so we hopped in the Gator with Allen and his wonderful Dog, Molly, to check it out. It didn't seem like anything was wrong once we got there, but it did end up being a great picture opportunity.



We could tell that it was going to be another hot one so we headed back out to the lake. This time Todd, Molly and Todd dog, Casey, joined the group.

I just loved sitting the in the front of the boat.

After cruising along the Green Monarchs we decided to beach the boat and get out for a bit.

Molly enjoying the water's edge


Dave laughing at Molly avoiding getting wet
Yet another view from the lake


When we got back we enjoyed some time in the hammocks at the ranch before saddling up for a trail ride thru the woods.

The view as we headed into the forest


Dave & Frosty and Me & PlayGirl resting in a clearing by a pond

Then we rounded up the cattle and herded them down to the arena where we learned how to do some cutting. We both got some great action.

By the time we got back it was dark, but Todd had prepared us dinner. We had ranch raised chicken.

Sunday morning started with a bang! Allen set us up to do some skeet shooting. Neither of us had ever shot a shotgun before. I wasn't very good, but Dave was amazing. Out of nearly 25 rounds he only missed 3!

Dave shooting the 12 gage


Me shoot the 20 gage


If you enlarge the pic you can see the shell flying, the smoke, and even the clay breaking as I hit it!


Then it was off for some 4 wheeling.


Then we headed to town for some lunch and shopping.

(Susan, this pics for you!)



Saying good bye was sad. I just loved it there. I really didn't want to leave. We can't wait to go back!



Allen, thanks so much for sharing your fantabulous ranch and for your generous hospitality!!!!! It was a weekend we will not soon forget!

A view from the plane on the way home


Dave's top 3 of the trip:
1. Molly moments
2. Herding the cattle & cutting
3. The Green Monarchs


Kristin's top 3 of the trip:
1. The trail ride
2. Herding the cattle & cutting
3. Soaring in the boat

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a great spread! Looks like the life of riley there! Blessings.

Anonymous said...

What an incredible trip!!!! Looks like you really had fun. And wow one of Dave's top 3 was herding the cattle and cutting, who would of thunk.

Unknown said...

Kristin, Fun to see another way of life. Allen has a wonderful place.
You and Dave look like you could enjoy that life style without having to work at it much. Way to go Dave, you look great on that horse, I only wish I could have seen you cut some cattle. Kristin, you have done the sorting thing but cutting was new to you as well? right? Loved the pictures and stories that went with them. xo mom

Anonymous said...

I LOVE the cupcake - for a sweet cupcake! :-) I am so happy you two had the opportunity to relax!

Anonymous said...

What a fun weekend! I love how you captured so many great moments...I almost felt like I was there. Glad you had a relaxing time!

Anonymous said...

Hey Kristin, it looks like you guys had an amazing trip! Looking forward to seeing you guys tomorrow. :-)